Approval for disability benefit overhaul

Tests set to be more accessible

Tynwald has unanimously approved a series of measures aimed at improving work capability assessments.

It's after a lengthy investigation into government tests for sickness benefits, which saw a number of unwell claimants have their payments withdrawn.

A number of staff at the private contractor which carried out the assessments were found to be under-qualified.

Health Minister Kate Beecroft called the affair 'shameful' and 'immoral'.

The recommendations put forward by the Social Affairs Policy Review Committee today include broadening the definition of 'capability', and carrying out tests in a more convenient and accessible venue.