Dependability Ltd fails to follow regulations

A fair deal is being promised to Island claimants who lost social security benefits, after an unregistered health worker carried out their work capability assessments.

Two registered mental health nurses must be involved in face-to-face capability tests, but in 20 recent cases one was not properly qualified.

The lapse has led to incapacity benefit - which had been stopped in 10 cases - being reinstated.

Payment to another 10 people who were about to lose it will continue, and all 20 cases will be reassessed.

The tests are being conducted by Dependability Ltd.

Treasury Minister Eddie Teare has apologised for the blunder and insists properly qualified nurses are conducting all other cases. 

He's promised to put things right: