The latest DWP statistics for employment and support allowance (ESA) show a marked rise in the proportion of new claimants being placed in the support group.
In the latest quarter to September 2018, for ESA initial assessments:
- 47% were placed in the support group, up 5% on the last quarter.
- 21% were placed in the work-related activity group, up 1%.
- 32% were found fit for work, down 6%.
For repeat ESA assessments, the figures are:
- 72% support group.
- 16% work-related activity group.
- 12% fit for work.
Between October 2013 and June 2018, mandatory reconsideration success rates for ESA stand at just 14%.
Of those claimants who do not succeed at mandatory reconsideration stage, just 21% go on to appeal the decision.
Yet an average of 63% of those who go on to appeal won over this period, with current appeal success rates at 73%.
