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<p /> <p>The number of ESA claimants referred to the Work Programme has increased
by more than half over the last 2 years and as such we would expect to see a consequential
increase in sanction referrals as more people join the programme.</p><p> </p><p>ESA
claimants are not sanctioned for not finding or taking up work and all activities
claimants are referred to must be reasonable given their circumstances and capabilities.
In any month less than 1% of ESA claimants are sanctioned.</p><p> </p><p>Evidence
suggests that work and work related activity is good for people with health conditions.
Through the Work Programme ESA claimants have access to the support they need to improve
their skills and move closer to the labour market. With this increased support, comes
increased expectations and where claimants fail to meet reasonable requirements, proportionate
sanctions are applied.</p>
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