Canada Life Information

Welfare Reform

The Government has announced that in October 2008 it will implement changes to the provision of incapacity benefits, with the aim of controlling the spiralling cost of welfare and getting more people into employment. Through the reforms, the Government intends to change the focus of incapacity benefits, so that they work harder to get those who are able to work in some capacity back into active employment.

The changes are likely to have significant impact on Group benefits. It is expected that fewer people will qualify for benefits under the new regime, and as a result Group Income Protection is likely to be more in demand. Employers who offer GIP may find that they are viewed as a more attractive prospect for employees.

We are urging employers to prepare by reviewing their approach to the provision of their employee benefits, and intermediaries to take the opportunity to educate their clients.

Watch this space for forthcoming information, tips and links on the Government's Welfare Reform.

Useful links:

Press Release: Canada Life Group Insurance announces Group Income Protection product updates ahead of Welfare Reform

New: Welfare Reform an employer's guide (GRP548)

New: Welfare Reform an intermediary's guide (GRP549)

Welfare Reform Q&A (ref GRP500)

The Government's proposed measures (ref GRP504)

Incapacity Benefits compared to the ESA (ref GRP503)

The Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) process (ref GRP505)

The WCA and work focused interviews (ref GRP502)

Canada Life's Welfare Reform Supplement - all you need to know about the reforms

http://www.dwp.gov.uk/welfarereform/

If you have any further queries on the reforms, please contact Colin Micklewright, Head of Group Income Protection Business Development, at colin.micklewright@canadalife.co.uk