Paralympics sparks Atos assessment row

Vision charity the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) has called for the government to shake up its work capability assessment (WCA) scheme amid protests against supplier Atos Healthcare's involvement in the Paralympics.

Atos, worldwide IT partner for the London 2012 Games, has faced criticism over what protesters said were flawed medical assessments of UK residents claiming disability allowances, including those with visual impairments.

Steve Winyard, head of policy and campaigns at the RNIB, said: 'Not only are a high proportion of Atos' assessments producing decisions that are plainly wrong, but the process itself is creating fear, distress and anger. It is also important to remember that the government sets the criteria used for assessments and a fundamental review of the WCA is urgently needed. It is deeply flawed and fails to recognise the real barriers that disabled people face in obtaining and retaining paid work.'