27 August 2015

2,380 people have died after being declared fit for work by the Department for Work and Pensions, over a three year period.

The government released the information (after a long wait) in response to a freedom of information request.

The statistics reveal that 2,380 people died between December 2011 and February 2014 within 14 days of being taken off employment and support allowance (ESA) after a work capability assessment (WCA) had concluded they were able to work.

The TUC is calling for an enquiry into the back-to-work regime. Frances O’Grady, said: “These disturbing findings cannot be swept under the carpet. We need a welfare system that supports people to find decent jobs, not one that causes stress and ill health.”