Source · Select Committees · Work and Pensions Committee
Recommendation 13
13
Not Addressed
Limited equality analysis of Winter Fuel Payment reform failed to assess broader health impacts
Conclusion
The Government conducted a very limited high-level equality analysis of WFP reform, estimating the impact on the number of pensioners in poverty. We heard repeatedly about the possible impacts on their health, as well. While this may be difficult to quantify, a fuller impact assessment, 83 considering the cumulative impact and broader impact of policies and the views of pensioners, might have contributed to a different policy change or more effective plans for implementation. (Conclusion, Paragraph 88)
Government Response Summary
The government notes the committee's comments about limited WFP equality analysis and states its Chief Analyst is strengthening general analysis, but primarily discusses safeguarding policies and reviews from a separate context, not directly addressing the call for a fuller WFP impact assessment.
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
The Department has a statutory requirement to consider the Public Sector Equality Duty during the decision-making process, including analysing the impact of potential policies which includes older people. We note the Committee’s comments and can confirm that the Department’s Chief Analyst and Chief Scientific Adviser is already taking steps to further strengthen such analysis. The recommendations from the WPSC Safeguarding Vulnerable Claimants report have been taken seriously by the department. The Government’s consultation on Pathways to Work: Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working Green Paper (www.gov.uk/government/consultations/pathways-to-work-reforming-benefits-and-support-to-get-britain-working-green-paper) included a question on a new DWP safeguarding approach. Following the consideration of the consultation findings and on conclusion of the Department’s current safeguarding review, the Government will set out its plans. DWP’s new approach to safeguarding will include a clear statement of intent to drive cultural change across all levels of the Department, renew the commitment to safeguarding, promote systems-based approaches, and define DWP’s role in supporting those with safeguarding needs. The Government also recognises the value of assessments of policy changes to be undertaken jointly, with the Chief Medical Advisor working alongside policy officials, to determine the relevance and appropriateness of input, in order to support the effective and efficient functioning of Government.