PEOPLE in Barnsley are forced to wait more than 15 weeks on average for a decision on welfare appeals, according to new government figures.

The figures were revealed by Barnsley East MP Stephanie Peacock after she forced ministers into admitting the statistics through a parliamentary question.

They relate to appeals made on Employment Support Allowance (ESA) and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) applications. ESA provides both help to those unable to work through long term illness or disability and support when they can work, and PIP helps cover the extra costs caused by serious disability or long-term ill health.

The data shows that people in Barnsley wait on average 15.2 weeks for an outcome to their appeal of the initial decision.

It follows Ms Peacock’s recent revelation that two thirds of initial PIP and ESA applications rejections that are eventually overturned on appeal in Barnsley.

She said: “Many people who have fallen on difficult times through no fault of their own depend on vital financial support.

“Yet this admission by Tory ministers just shows how carelessly those who are struggling with disability or long-term illness in Barnsley are treated.

“I recently revealed figures showing two-thirds of people who are initially rejected PIP and ESA are found to be eligible on appeal, with the original decision eventually overturned.

“This figure is shocking enough, but now we find out those same people are being forced to wait nearly four extra months for the privilege of being offered the help they are eligible for.

“This is simply not good enough, and the government should immediately explain why residents in Barnsley are forced to go months without the vital help they are entitled to.”