Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

Healthy Start Uptake Data

21 November 2024 · Department for Work and Pensions

Proposed by Andrew Western Lab Stretford and Urmston

Benefits & WelfareNHS

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

View on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Key points

  • Andrew Western is addressing inaccuracies in Healthy Start scheme eligibility and take-up statistics since January 2023.
  • DWP has corrected the calculation of the assessed income period from July 2024.
  • Cross-departmental testing is being conducted to ensure accuracy before further data sharing with NHSBSA.

Issue summary

Andrew Western is addressing an issue with inaccurate statistics for Healthy Start scheme eligibility and take-up, which has affected reporting since January 2023.

Action requested

DWP has corrected the calculation of the assessed income period from July 2024. Corrected data will be restored as soon as it can be accurately produced, and cross-departmental testing is being conducted to ensure accuracy before further data sharing with NHSBSA.

Key facts

  • The issue affects statistics dating back to January 2023.
  • 15 Parliamentary Questions (PQs) and 8 debates have been impacted by inaccurate data.
  • DWP's incorrect calculation of the assessed income period led to an overestimation of potential eligibility figures.
  • Healthy Start applications, existing beneficiaries, or live claim processes are not affected.
  • The NHS Business Services Authority administers the scheme on behalf of DHSC.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy