Labour Urged to Implement 'Duty to Work' Clause for Benefit Claimants

Former Minister Calls for Radical Reform

A former cabinet minister is urging the Labour party to introduce a legally enforced "duty to work" clause for benefit claimants who are signed off sick. The proposal comes as a major study reveals that only one in ten workers on incapacity benefits are required to prove they are actively seeking employment.

Study Highlights Lack of Support for Economically Inactive Individuals

The Pathways to Work Commission, led by former Health Secretary Alan Milburn, has examined economically inactive individuals in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. The commission's findings suggest that many economically inactive individuals of working age who desire employment are not receiving the necessary support. Mr. Milburn is calling for a "duty of engagement" to be imposed on welfare recipients to address this issue.

Need for Welfare System Reform

The study conducted in Barnsley since July 2023 revealed a discrepancy between job vacancies and the number of individuals actively seeking work. Despite 6,000 economically inactive residents expressing a desire for employment, only 4,030 were mandated to search for jobs by the Department for Work and Pensions. Mr. Milburn emphasizes the importance of reforming the welfare system to assist more individuals in securing employment tailored to their needs.

Call for Personal Responsibility

In light of the findings, Mr. Milburn stresses the necessity for individuals receiving benefits and capable of working to engage with support services. He believes that while the government can provide assistance, individuals must also take responsibility for their own employment prospects to contribute to the country's competitiveness in the global market.