CHARD and Ilminster's MP has called for changes to the way decisions are made about sickness benefits for unemployed disabled people.

Marcus Fysh is backing recommendations made in a Work and Pensions Select Committee report.

The Yeovil MP said many of his constituents have said the report is 'not fit for purpose' and he has written to the Work and Pensions Secretary.

The report calls for 'well-informed' work coaches to be in charge of the Work Capability Assessment, particularly in re-assessing and varying conditionality over time.

It also advises the Department for Work and Pensions to ‘take a more flexible, personalised approach to providing unemployed disabled people – including those with the greatest needs – with support’.

Marcus has written to Work and Pensions Secretary Damian Green to suggest they meet to discuss this issue, which he said affects many of his constituents.

Marcus said: “Many constituents have contacted me about this assessment saying it’s not fit for purpose.

"I think it’s a valuable tool but agree that the work coach making these decisions should be an expert who can make well-informed decisions, particularly in re-assessing and varying conditionality over time.

“After all, it’s essential we have a fair system that enables everyone to fulfil their potential while providing a safety net for those who need it most, with specialists and experts entrusted to making those decisions.”