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23,000 in Kent will be hit by benefits shake-up

Benefit claimants in Kent are to feel the full force of the biggest overhaul of the welfare system for decades.

Ministers will outline plans later to get thousands of people in the county off benefits and into work.

They are expected to pledge greater support for the jobless in return for greater responsibility.

Incapacity benefit is set to be scrapped, with people who are currently on it reassessed to find out what jobs they can do.


Hear reporter Martin Jefferies' interview with Stephen Timms, minister for employment and welfare reform


Those who are genuinely unable to return to work for health reasons would see their financial support increased through Employment Support Allowance.

People who are fit to work would receive Jobseeker's Allowance only.

The Government's Green Paper is expected to include plans requiring Kent's long-term unemployed to carry out voluntary work.

Unemployed drug users could also be banned from receiving benefits unless they seek medical advice and agree to a treatment plan.

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