Fact Check: "Working-age health-related benefit spending skyrockets from £36 billion to £52 billion in five years."
What We Know
The claim states that spending on working-age health-related benefits increased from £36 billion to £52 billion over a five-year period. According to a report by the Institute for Fiscal Studies, spending on these benefits did indeed rise from £36 billion in 2019-20 to £48 billion in 2023-24, with projections suggesting it could reach £63 billion by 2028-29 if current trends continue (source-4, source-6).
Additionally, the UK government's Spring Statement indicates that spending on working-age sickness and disability benefits increased by £20 billion since the pandemic and is projected to rise further, potentially reaching £70 billion annually by the end of the current Parliament (source-1, source-2).
Analysis
The claim is partially true. While the reported figures of £36 billion and £52 billion are not entirely accurate, the general trend of increasing expenditure on health-related benefits is supported by credible sources. The increase from £36 billion to £48 billion is documented, and the projection to reach £63 billion by 2028-29 aligns with the government's forecasts.
However, the claim's assertion of a rise to £52 billion specifically lacks direct support from the available data. The figures suggest a growth trajectory, but the exact figure of £52 billion is not confirmed within the context of the reported time frame. The source from the Institute for Fiscal Studies, which provides a detailed analysis of the changes in spending, is considered reliable and objective, as it is a well-respected independent research institute (source-4).
On the other hand, the government's Spring Statement is also a credible source, as it reflects official projections and analyses from the Department for Work and Pensions, although it may carry some bias towards justifying proposed reforms (source-1, source-2).
Conclusion
The claim that working-age health-related benefit spending skyrocketed from £36 billion to £52 billion in five years is partially true. While there is a significant increase in spending, the specific figures cited do not fully align with the available data. The increase from £36 billion to £48 billion is accurate, and projections indicate further growth, but the exact figure of £52 billion is not substantiated by the sources reviewed.
