Oral QuestionDepartment for Work and Pensions

What steps she is taking to improve data sharing between her Department and local authorities.

Tabled: 26 August 2025Answered: 1 September 2025

Asked by

Sarah Hall

Labour (Co-op)Warrington South

Answering Minister

the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions

Answer from Hansard

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Andrew Western)

The Department continues to provide a broad range of data to local authorities to enable fast, accurate assessments for services, including blue badges and free school meals. Looking ahead, the Department is committed to expanding real-time data sharing in critical areas, such as housing benefit and care homes, while also testing innovative models such as the WorkWell scheme, which bring together local and central services to deliver more joined-up support for citizens.