High Peak MP Robert Largan has hosted a workshop for officials from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and local support groups in the High Peak.

This is part of a series of events collecting feedback from disabled people, helping to shape the Government’s forthcoming Health and Disability Green Paper.

In advance of the workshop, the High Peak MP spoke in the House of Commons:

“Tomorrow, I will be hosting a workshop between local disability support groups and the DWP in my constituency to discuss the Green Paper. Ahead of that meeting, will the Minister update the House on what steps are being taken to increase access to benefits and support for the most vulnerable people during the pandemic?”

The Minister for Disabled People, Justin Tomlinson MP, answered:

“I thank my hon. Friend for being so proactive, along with about 50 other MPs who have already agreed to host health and disability Green Paper events to look at the key themes of advocacy, getting supportive evidence, the assessment process and the appeals process. It is the Government’s absolute priority to support those with disabilities and long-term health conditions.”

Over the coming months, the DWP will continue its engagement with disabled people and their representatives and publish the formal consultation document.

Robert Largan MP commented:

“The pandemic has caused huge disruption to everyone’s lives, especially the most vulnerable. I am determined to see Ministers learn the right lessons and make the benefits system easier to navigate for the most vulnerable, including those who are disabled or victims of domestic violence. 

“This workshop was an important part of this learning process, and I am looking forward to scrutinising the green paper once it is published.”