Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall discussed a DWP survey indicating that many individuals on benefits, particularly those with mental health conditions, express a desire to work if provided with support. While 49% of health and disability claimants feel unable to work, a notable 44% of those with mental health challenges remain optimistic about employment prospects with improved health. Kendall acknowledged instances of misuse within the benefits system, emphasizing the importance of reforming welfare to assist those genuinely seeking employment, amid rising welfare costs and increasing economic inactivity among youth.
When asked if people on benefits were 'pretending they can't work', she added: 'Many of them have either just lost jobs that they desperately miss, or really want to get back into to work once they've got their health condition under control.'
The government says the number of young people aged 16 to 34 who do not work because of long-term sickness and have a mental health condition has reached 270,000. This number increased by 60,000 (26%) in the last year, according to the DWP.
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