March 2020

DWP is making changes to the Test & Learn Dynamic Purchasing System (T+L DPS). The existing T+L DPS will close on 23 March and from 27 March 2020 the T+L DPS will be transferred to be run through PQQ_28831. A guidance note is attached explaining the changes. Organisations currently registered on the T+L DPS will have their details automatically transferred to the new system.

BASE will be postponing all regional forums and training events until further notice in the light of the coronavirus restrictions. Office functions will continue as normal and certificate learners can continue to receive support by contacting their assessor by email or phone.

We have been asked for advice regarding the provision of workplace support but there are no easy answers. Clearly, the welfare of service staff and clients has to be a priority and services should support those customers through risk assessment where they are vulnerable because of their health. The Business Disability Forum has produced a useful legal update about the position for disabled workers.

Employees who are shielding in line with public health guidance (or need to stay home with someone who is shielding) can be furloughed if they are unable to work from home. The government have confirmed that shielding employees can be placed on furlough even if the employer has work for them to do.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has lost more employment tribunals for disability discrimination than any other employer in Britain since 2016. BBC's Panorama found that the DWP lost 17 of 134 claims of discrimination against its own disabled workers from 2016-19. It paid out at least £950,000 in both tribunal payments and out-of-court settlements in that time.

DWP employs over 80,000 staff, over 11,000 of whom have decared a disability. The DWP said it was "shocked" by the data but was reviewing its processes to ensure all staff were treated fairly.