Disabled people can get extra support under Universal Credit (UC) if they’re found eligible after a Work Capability Assessment (WCA). But many of those who come to Citizens Advice are waiting months, if not over a year, for this assessment. In the meantime, many struggle to afford essential costs and risk being pushed into poverty.
Many WCA reassessments are being delayed
Our advisers have seen more and more people whose WCAs are delayed. So far this year, there’s been a 21% increase in the number of people coming to Citizens Advice for help with a delayed WCA, compared to the same period in 2024. Advisers say that most people aren’t told by the DWP that their assessment may be delayed, and aren’t given an explanation for the delay. Our advisers say this is particularly affecting reassessments.