More than four in ten sickness benefit claimants across Bradford are being assessed as fit to work.

All people claiming incapacity benefit are being assessed and placed in one of three categories: fit to work now, cannot work, or possibly could work in the future with support.

New figures from the Department for Work and Pensions show that of the 3,880 claimants assessed across the district 1,640 (42 per cent) have been told they are fit to work and moved on to Job Seeker's Allowance, the benefit paid to people actively seeking employment.

A breakdown reveals a further 1,270 (33 per cent) were placed in “work related activity group” which means they will receive Employment and Support Allowance – which replaces Incapacity Benefit – but it is hoped in time and with support the individual may work.

The remaining 970 (25 per cent) were assessed as not able to work.

The claimants were assessed between the beginning of last year and February this year and many more will be assessed in the coming months, or have been assessed since the data was collated, as part of the Government's pledge to crack down on benefits.

Employment Minister Mark Hoban said: “The old incapacity benefit system condemned too many people to a life on benefits without any hope of ever going back to work. This was simply wrong. By reassessing everyone for ESA we can help thousands of people move from benefits and back into work if they are capable while giving unconditional support to those who need it.

“I am under no illusion, however, that many face a difficult journey back into employment.”