Benefits and mental health

The impact of benefit changes to those with poor mental health are being highlighted today.

A letter to the Guardian newspaper from a number of chief executives from leading mental health charities flags up their worries about the effect reforms of the welfare system are having.

Reassessments of people on incapacity benefit will begin next month via what they call the "deeply flawed" work capability assessment.

A new personal independence payment test will start over the summer, which is also "alarming many people affected by mental distress".

Professor Malcolm Harrington completed a review of the work capability assessment at the end of last year. Its recommendations are being implemented by the Department of Work and Pensions in full.