To find current rates of social security payments see Social Security/Employment related benefits/2011-2012 rates . The basic rate of Employment and Support Allowance from April 2011 is £67.50 (or £105.95 for a couple).

From 27th October 2008, for new applicants the Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) replaced Incapacity Benefit and Income Support due to incapacity. Those already receiving Incapacity Benefit or Income Support due to an incapacity continue to receive them for so long as they continue to satisfy the entitlement conditions.

Employment and Support Allowance comes in two forms "Contribution-based" and "Income-based". The latter benefits those with capital of less than £16,000 and whose partner (if they have one) works less than 24 hours a week on average.

The regulations noted above, which bring the scheme into effect, are made under the Welfare Reform Act 2007 which provides for "stick and carrot" measures to encourage people back to work and to prevent abuses (see notes at Acts of Parliament etc/Welfare Reform Act 2007 ).

A new style medical "Work Capability Assessment" (basic notes) looks at what the claimant can do, and not just what they cannot do. Those who are likely to be capable of work will be part of a "Work-Related Activity Group" (the "employment" part of ESA). Those with an illness or disability which makes it impractical for them to work will be part of a "Support Group" (the "support" part of ESA).

Proposals in the July 2008 Green Paper "No one written off: reforming welfare to reward responsibility" suggest that all existing incapacity benefit claimants will be transferred to ESA by 2013.

The government provides information on the Employment and Support Allowance - eligibility (Directgov website).