The government is gearing up to unveil over £6bn in welfare cuts, bringing stricter tests for disability benefits, frozen payments in 2026, and big changes to universal credit. Critics warn that some of the most severely disabled people could lose out.
Labour MPs Push Back
Not everyone is on board. Around 80 Labour MPs are expected to oppose the cuts, which will hit sick and disabled claimants the hardest. Before the pandemic, the government spent £52bn on sickness benefits—last year, that figure jumped to £65bn.
DWP: “Modernising” the System
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) insists this isn’t just about cuts. The Health Transformation Programme aims to modernise disability benefits, including Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
Sir Stephen Timms, Minister for Social Security and Disabilities, says the programme will revamp the entire PIP process, from applying for benefits to getting paid. He argues the changes will help more people stay in work while adapting to complex health conditions.
“Where Will Disabled People Find the Money?”
On Good Morning Britain, disability rights campaigner Dr Shani Dhanda didn’t hold back. Speaking to Ed Balls, she highlighted the harsh reality of the cuts:
“Even if you do receive that benefit, you’ve still got to find an extra £1,000 a month… where are people going to get this money from?”
With PIP payments set to be frozen and stricter eligibility rules on the horizon, many fear the government is making life even harder for those already struggling.
Watch
Mark Littlewood also discussed the changes. You might agree with this comment (below).
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Related: Flynn slams Labour benefits policy: ‘This isn’t compassion, it’s scapegoating’
