First Report - DWP’s preparations for changes in the world of work

Select Committee
Work and Pensions Committee HC 216 29 June 2021
Report Status Government responded
Conclusions & Recommendations 25 items (21 recs)
Government Response (AI assessment · 25 of 25 classified)
Government response
Third Special Report - DWP’s preparations for changes in the world of work: Government Response to the Committee’s First Report of Session 2021–22 · published 12 Nov 2021

Recommendations & Conclusions

3 results
11 Conclusion Acknowledged
Para 64
Changes in the world of work will affect some groups of people more significantly than...
Conclusion
Changes in the world of work will affect some groups of people more significantly than others. We heard that automation has the potential to exacerbate existing inequalities—but that does not have to be the case.
Government Response Summary
The government discusses the move towards hybrid working and its potential benefits for disabled people. It highlights the Flexible Working Taskforce's focus and commitments in the National Disability Strategy on flexible working, carer leave, and a 'Disability at Work' advice hub.
Department for Work and Pensions
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14 Recommendation Acknowledged
Para 75
The pandemic has accelerated the take up of new technology in the workplace, and it...
Recommendation
The pandemic has accelerated the take up of new technology in the workplace, and it has led to a growth in remote working. It is likely that some of the changes to working patterns and practices will remain in place … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the recommendation by referencing existing ONS data on hybrid working and disabled people's experience, and highlights commitments in the National Disability Strategy and the focus of the Flexible Working Taskforce, but does not explicitly commit to monitoring and publishing a specific analysis covering technology take-up, working patterns, and job quality as requested.
Department for Work and Pensions
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23 Recommendation Acknowledged
Para 116
We welcome the fact that DWP has recruited 13,500 additional Work Coaches in response to...
Recommendation
We welcome the fact that DWP has recruited 13,500 additional Work Coaches in response to the pandemic. DWP should continue to assess whether the number of Work Coaches is sufficient, and commit to recruiting more in the future if demand … Read more
Government Response Summary
The government states it has increased Disability Employment Advisers and regularly reviews their numbers and functions to ensure adequate capacity. However, it does not make a specific commitment to recruit more Work Coaches if demand rises or to hire more/upskill DEAs if necessary, as recommended.
Department for Work and Pensions
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