The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has announced a formal investigation into the treatment of chronically ill and disabled individuals by welfare officials in the UK. This investigation aims to determine if the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) unlawfully failed to protect claimants with learning disabilities or severe mental illness, potentially leading to the deaths of vulnerable individuals.
Campaigners have long criticized benefit assessments for being poorly designed, punitive, and degrading, putting vulnerable claimants at risk of losing entitlements unfairly. High-profile cases, including individuals like Errol Graham and Jodey Whiting, have highlighted the harmful consequences of flawed benefit assessments.
The EHRC’s investigation marks a significant escalation in examining the DWP’s treatment of benefit claimants, seeking evidence from past and current welfare ministers and DWP officials. Submissions from whistleblowers who worked for the department or private contractors carrying out benefit assessments are also invited.
Various advocacy groups have welcomed the investigation, emphasizing the need for a fair and compassionate welfare system that supports disabled individuals. The DWP asserts its commitment to improving the lives of disabled people while cooperating with the EHRC’s inquiry.