Liz Kendall Criticizes Rising Welfare Costs and Calls for Reform

The Work and Pensions Secretary highlights issues with disability benefits and work attitudes, citing the need for systemic changes to reduce costs and boost employment.

Liz Kendall, Work and Pensions Secretary, stated that some sickness and disability benefit claimants are 'taking the mickey' and reforms are needed to address rising costs.
The UK government is facing a £65 billion annual expense on incapacity and disability benefits, surpassing defense spending, with costs projected to grow by £20 billion over the next five years.
Kendall emphasized the importance of reducing NHS waiting lists and improving job center support to help claimants re-enter the workforce.
She expressed concern about young people's attitudes toward work, particularly those from the 'Covid generation,' suggesting some view typical job responsibilities as overly stressful.
A green paper is expected in the spring, proposing measures to overhaul job centers and provide targeted support to encourage employment among benefit claimants.