Fears for disabled Brits as US firm takes over benefits assessments from Atos

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Fears for disabled Brits as US firm takes over benefits assessments from Atos

Iain Duncan Smith, the Work and Pensions Secretary  said the change means a “fresh approach” when Maximus takes over the controversial assessments from Atos in March.

From March, the disgraced “fit-for-work” test firm Atos will stop doing assessments on disabled people on behalf of the Coalition.

The Department for Work and Pensions has announced US company Maximus will carry out the controversial Work Capability Assessments.

Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith said the change means a “fresh approach”.

But US court files show Maximus has spent millions on payouts in the past settling lawsuits – including allegations of fraud, improper expenses and even disability discrimination.’

MPs and disability groups are so worried they have signed an open letter to Mr Duncan Smith warning of “deep concern” over the £500million contract. The letter asks why the ­Government “appears to have chosen to repeat its mistakes”.

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Niamh Harris
About Niamh Harris 14893 Articles
I am an alternative health practitioner interested in helping others reach their maximum potential.