> ## Content Index
> Fetch the complete content index at: https://lichfieldlive.co.uk/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further.

# Lichfield MP says “right to try” will help support disabled people to work
- URL: https://lichfieldlive.co.uk/lichfield-mp-says-right-to-try-will-help-support-disabled-people-to-work/
- Published: 2026-05-09T06:10:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-05-08T12:54:14.000Z
- Description: Lichfield’s MP says a new “right to try” approach will support disabled people to work.
- Author: Lichfield Live
- Tags: Politics, #wp, #wp-post, #Import 2026-07-22 18:11, News

LICHFIELD’S MP says a new “right to try” approach will support disabled people to work.

New leglislation means those with health conditions will not see benefits put at risk if they seek to enter employment.

It comes after more than a third of disabled people told a Department of Work and Pensions survey that they wanted to work but were held back due to the fear of how it would impact their payments.

The legislation means entering employment will not automatically trigger benefit reassessment for claimants on Employment and Support Allowance, Personal Independence Payment and Universal Credit health element.

Lichfield’s Labour MP Dave Robertson said:

> “For too long, people with long‑term illnesses and disabilities have been abandoned to a life on benefits – even when they want to work.  
>  
> “By removing the fear that trying work will lead to an immediate loss of benefits, sick and disabled people in Lichfield, Burntwood and the villages will be able to see whether work is right for them, boosting their living standards and supporting our local economy.”

The legislation also includes a guarantee that those looking to volunteer will be able to do so without fear of benefit reassessment.

Minister for Social Security and Disability, Sir Stephen Timms, said:

> “Giving sick and disabled people legal protection to try work without fear is vital for their futures and for growing our economy.  
>  
> “It’s part of the work we’re doing to bear down on the cost of living and boost living standards for sick or disabled people in every corner of the country.  
>  
> “With 2.8 million people out of work due to long-term sickness, we’re removing the barriers that have held people back for too long.”