Disabled people to receive benefits as they try new jobs

But fear as reports say No 10 considers U-turn on PIP freeze

- MILLIE COOKE

Disabled people will have the right to try employment without the risk of losing their benefits under plans set to be announced as part of the government's welfare reforms.

The concession comes as Sir Keir Starmer attempts to quell growing disquiet within his party and around the cabinet table over plans to cut the welfare bill.

Work and pensions secretary Liz Kendall is expected to announce legislation to introduce a “right to try guarantee” that will prevent people receiving health-related benefits from having their entitlements automatically reassessed if they enter employment.

The move is said to be in response to surveys suggesting disabled people and those with long-term health conditions fear they will not get their benefits back if they try employment, but it does not work out.

There are growing concerns about plans for sweeping welfare cuts expected to be announced by the government next week, as charities warn that thousands of disabled people could be forced into poverty.

As the prime minister attempts to persuade cabinet ministers and Labour MPs alike that there is a “moral case” for cutting the welfare bill, there are growing fears that as many as 1 million people could see their benefits reduced.

According to The Times, the overhaul will deny payments to people with mental health conditions and those who struggle with washing, dressing themselves and eating. Ms Kendall is also expected to slash the top rate of incapacity benefit, which currently means those deemed unfit for any work are paid upwards of £800 a month. The payment is double what jobseekers are paid.