SDLP Ballyarnett candidate Rory Farrell
Numerous people across Derry are required to undergo a second medical assessment after the initial assessments failed to capture enough information.
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) replaced Disability Living Allowance (DLA) when Welfare Reform was introduced to Northern Ireland.
The DUP, Sinn Féin and Alliance voted to allow the Tory Government to extend welfare cuts to the North in November 2015.
The private company Capita is contracted to conduct the controversial PIP medical assessments.
Mr Farrell commented,
“We have approached by dozens of people that have been informed that they must undergo a second assessment.
“It is a disgrace that people are expected to endure a further medical assessment after Capita failed to complete the initial assessment in a thorough manner.
“Medical assessments can be a stressful, traumatic and intrusive experience and it is unacceptable that people must go through the process again due to failures by Capita.
“We have spoken to Capita and the stock response is that there is not enough information to make a decision on the claim and that the entire medical assessment must be repeated.”
Mr Farrell concluded: “People with illnesses and disabilities are being let down by the PIP process. The entire system, including Capita’s role in it, needs serious attention to ensure people get the support they need and deserve.
“There are no good news stories about Welfare Reform and this latest scandal does nothing to bolster public confidence in the new system.”
Tags: