To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how much funding her Department has made available for providers on independent advice services on benefits in each year since 2004; and what steps she plans to take to ensure that disabled people have access to expert independent advice and assistance on all Government benefits and support. (307681)

My Department do not fund independent advice services to offer advice to our customers. The Government, through the Department for Business Innovation and Skills, support the Citizens Advice service in England, Scotland and Wales.

Jobcentre Plus and PDCS have dedicated staff who deal with customers on all benefits and support. In particular disabled customers have the support of Disability Employment Advisers in Jobcentres. Additionally help is available via the internet from Directgov.