Government figures for the quarter to August 2011 reveal that 54% of people who go through the Work Capability Assessment are found fit for some form of work.
The official statistics published today by the Department for Work and Pensions show 19% can do some work with the right help and support and a further 27% of people will go directly into the Support Group, receiving unconditional financial support.
There are still 2.60 million people claiming sickness benefits, almost 900,000 of which have been on Incapacity Benefit for over a decade.
Employment Minister Chris Grayling said: "For those who need additional support getting into work, the Work Programme provides tailored support to help overcome whatever barriers they may face."
Outcomes of initial assessments for new claims started from June to August 2011 show:
45% of claimants have an outcome i.e. decisions have been made on their claims;
39% of claimants had their claim closed before having a face to face assessment; and
16% of claimants were still undergoing assessment.
Claimants with an outcome for their claim can be broken down as follows:
46% of claimants were entitled to the benefit.
Within this -
19% of claimants were placed in the Work Related Activity Group; and
27% of claimants were placed in the Support Group; and
54% of claimants were assessed as Fit for Work and are no longer eligible for Employment and Support Allowance.
