Isle of Wight MP Sounds the Alarm Over ESA Changes
Isle of Wight MP Andrew Turner has raised concerns that recent buzz around Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) reforms could scare vulnerable Islanders. The controversy swirled after last week’s Commons showdown, which slammed down several House of Lords’ attempts to alter the Welfare Reform and Work Bill.
Clearing the Air on ESA Changes
Turner stressed there’s no shake-up for current ESA claimants. “People already on ESA shouldn’t be worried,” he said. “The changes only hit new claimants from April 2017 in the Work Related Activity Group (WRAG). These folks will get the same money as Jobseeker’s Allowance recipients — nearly £30 less than now.”
Instead of cash payouts, new claimants will get tailored support aimed at helping them break free from the benefits trap and get back to work. The government plans a White Paper detailing the support, developed with charities and other groups, ahead of the changes hitting.
Why the Shake-up?
- Job growth is booming nationwide.
- One in five Jobseeker’s Allowance claimants find work monthly.
- Only 1 in 100 on WRAG do the same, despite 61% wanting jobs.
“The current system, in place since 2008, doesn’t help these people, their families, or taxpayers,” Turner said. “Economic growth isn’t reaching those eager to work.”
Frank Field Gives Government a Nod
Former Labour welfare minister Frank Field MP backed the Government’s stance during the debate. “No Government in the next decade will have the resources that previous ones had,” he said. “We might wish it were different, but we need to grow up.”
Field acknowledges he may disagree on the details but agrees with the need to focus limited funds where they’ll make the most impact.
