A growing list of celebrities—including Stephen Fry, Brian Cox, and Stanley Tucci—have blasted the UK government’s £5bn disability benefit cuts.
They called the plan “shameful” and warned it would push even more disabled people into poverty. Meanwhile, the Trussell Trust, the UK’s biggest food bank network, has urged ministers to reconsider before it’s too late.
🚨 Who’s losing out?
The government’s disability benefit overhaul will see over 1 million people lose between £4,200 and £6,300 a year. Some households could be £10,000 worse off.
Unsurprisingly, the backlash has been fierce. Disability and poverty campaigners have condemned the cuts, while even Labour MPs are expressing anger.
⚖️ ‘Fairness, not cruelty’
Stephen Fry didn’t hold back, arguing that the burden should fall on the wealthiest—not those in need.
“The social security system should be rooted in justice and compassion, fairness and need. It’s not too late to rethink this.”
Meanwhile, Brian Cox called the cuts “a stain on this country”, adding:
“So many people already rely on food banks just to survive. These cuts make no sense and will have a lasting impact on those struggling the most.”
😨 ‘People are scared’
Comedian Rosie Jones, who has cerebral palsy, warned that disabled people are terrified about what’s coming next.
“Disability payments are already not enough to cover life’s essentials. Cutting them even further is cruel.”
Celebrity chef Levi Roots added:
“We need solutions that make food banks obsolete. These cuts will just keep them in business for longer.”
🥫 Food banks bracing for the worst
The Trussell Trust, which runs over 1,400 food banks, said the cuts would hit disabled households hardest.
They labelled the move “cruel and irresponsible”, warning that demand for emergency food aid will soar.
🗳️ Starmer defends the plan
Prime Minister Keir Starmer insists the cuts are necessary. He argues that the current system traps disabled people on benefits instead of helping them into work.
“Disability benefits spending has skyrocketed in recent years, and it’s simply unsustainable.”
However, many aren’t buying it.
Dame Arlene Phillips called the plan “shameful”, while Stanley Tucci warned:
“Disabled parents will be skipping meals just to feed their kids. It doesn’t have to be this way.”
⏳ Is there still time to stop it?
The government insists the new system will be “fairer and more sustainable”. But with growing outrage from celebrities, charities, and campaigners, pressure is mounting.
Will ministers listen—or will millions be left struggling to survive?
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