Government's back to work plans could see unemployed pay for their prescriptions

As part of the Autumn Statement, the Government announced a Back to Work Plan which provides support for health and employment schemes and tougher sanctions for those claiming disability.

Those sanctioned could be denied access to welfare payments and other benefits like free prescriptions or help with energy bills.

Disability campaigners and Prescription Charges Coalition members are really worried about this announcement, as it could further harm the health of people living with long-term conditions, many of whom may not be able to work.

Commenting, Laura Cockram Chair of the Coalition said:
“It's worrying that at a time when the Government should be trying to help more people manage the cost of living, they are instead looking at punitive measures for those who are unemployed.

​"Not only will threatening unemployed people with the removal of free prescriptions fail to encourage them back into work, it will likely lead to further health inequality. 

“Everyone should be able to access the medications they need, regardless of their employment status. Research from the Prescription Charges Coalition shows that being unable to afford your medicines leads to poor health, lost productivity and costly and avoidable hospital admissions.”