The government has issued a significant warning to millions of people claiming sickness benefits, as a major review into the diagnosis of mental health conditions is launched.
Clinical Review Ordered Amid Soaring Claims
Labour's Cabinet Member, Wes Streeting, has instructed leading clinical experts to conduct a thorough investigation into the sharp rise in diagnoses for mental illness, autism, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This move comes as Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) figures reveal a staggering 4.4 million working-age people are now claiming sickness or incapacity benefits.
The review, reported by The Times, will scrutinise whether normal feelings of distress are being "over-pathologised." The number of claimants has surged by 1.2 million since 2019, prompting serious concern within government about the sustainability of the welfare system and the accuracy of diagnoses driving claims.
Streetings Personal and Professional Concerns
In a statement, Wes Streeting emphasised a dual motivation for the review. He stated he knows from "personal experience how devastating it can be" for those who cannot secure a diagnosis or proper support for conditions like poor mental health, ADHD, or autism.
However, he added a note of caution, saying: "I also know, from speaking to clinicians, how the diagnosis of these conditions is sharply rising. We must look at this through a strictly clinical lens to get an evidence-based understanding... That's the only way we can ensure everyone gets timely access to accurate diagnosis and effective support."
Examining the Drivers of Rising Demand
Leading the independent clinical review is Professor Peter Fonagy, a prominent clinical psychologist from University College London who specialises in child mental health. He told The Times that the panel would examine evidence from research, lived experience, and frontline clinicians to understand the factors behind the escalating demand for services.
The review intersects with broader government concerns about the welfare state. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer commented on Monday, stating: "We've got to transform it; we also have to confront the reality that our welfare state is trapping people, not just in poverty, but out of work."
The outcome of this clinical diagnosis review could have profound implications for the millions of individuals currently relying on DWP sickness benefits, potentially affecting their eligibility and the support they receive based on their medical assessments.
