The following has been supplied by the TUC:
The union representing staff in benefits offices and job centres has backed a national protest against Atos, the private firm undertaking the controversial government fit-for-work tests. Disabled People Against Cuts (DPAC) organised the five days of action against Atos, which ran from 27-31 August. According to DPAC, the impact of the Atos tests has been devastating on claimants. 'Many have committed suicide because of its testing programme, and over 1,000 people have died of their illnesses soon after being found 'fit for work',' it said. A statement from PCS said the union 'wholeheartedly supports the campaign's aim, which is to fight back against the unfair workplace capability assessments. The 'fit-for-work' tests have led to severely ill and disabled people being forced off the benefits system.' It added: 'This system, which comes as part of the government's brutal cuts agenda, has led to real stress and hardship for many disabled people and their families, with some extreme cases even leading to suicides.' The union, which has members in Atos, added: 'The members we represent in Atos offices are not responsible for the failings of the government's unfair welfare policy which victimises people who are not able to work through no fault of their own. They deserve your support, consideration and respect during what is a difficult time for any worker trying to deliver public services.'
