Worrying rise in benefit claims by mentally ill

Saturday 27th September 2008, 9:29AM BST.

INCAPACITY because of mental health is costing nearly £2m. a year in invalidity benefit alone. The figure is revealed in Social Security’s annual benefits and contribution rates report for 2008 that was passed by the States.

Mental health is one of the priority areas for the Health and Social Services Department.

‘While it is customary to draw attention to unemployment levels, little attention is given to the number of people of working age who are receiving invalidity benefit,’ said Social Security minister Mark Dorey (pictured).

It is a long-term sickness benefit for people who have been incapable of work for more than six months. There are currently 788 people receiving it, which is 2.5% of the working population.

‘This is a matter of concern to the department,’ said Deputy Dorey.