Northern Ireland's Rising Cost of Disability Benefits

Northern Ireland's Rising Cost of Disability Benefits

The cost of disability and incapacity benefits for the working-age population in Northern Ireland has cost more than £10bn in five years, according to the latest figures from the Department for Communities.

Increase in Benefit Expenditure

The figures, released following a written question to the Minister from Alliance MLA Sían Mulholland, cover the amount paid out for Employment Support Allowance, the limited capability for work component of Universal Credit, Disability Living Allowance, and Personal Independence Payment between the 2019/20 financial year and 2023/24. According to the figures, the bill has jumped by over 30 per cent in five years, with an increase in Universal Credit Limited Capability for Work and PIP claimants.

Government Strategy for Disabled Individuals

When asked about a cross-departmental approach to create a cohesive return-to-work strategy for disabled individuals, the Health Minister highlighted the development of a new Disability and Work Strategy for Northern Ireland. The strategy aims to support people with disabilities and health conditions to move closer to, into, and progress in work.