OVER 800 people claiming incapacity benefits in Burnley will become the first in the country to be reassessed for their ability to work next month.

The move is designed to end the one-size-fits-all approach to those with health conditions and disabilities that has trapped claimants on benefits.

There are currently 5,170 people claiming incapacity benefits in Burnley and 70 per cent have been claiming for five years or more.

Along with claimants in Aberdeen, those in the Burnley area will undergo an assessment called the Work Capability Assessment (WCA), which assesses what a person can do, not only what they cannot.

Gill Dalton, from Jobcentre Plus in Burnley, said: “For someone on incapacity benefits in Burnley it may have been as long as five years since they spoke to anyone from Jobcentre Plus about their condition or work options.

“Looking again at what people need will help us to give them the right help and support to find work.”

Chris Grayling, Minister for Employment, said: “With so many people abandoned on long-term sickness benefits, it is clear to see the system is broken which is why we are reforming it.

“We will offer personalised support, including the new Work Programme to help people get into jobs and get their independence back.”