The government is bracing for a significant backlash as it unveils new plans to cut disability benefits, a move set to leave many sick and disabled individuals worse off. The changes, which include cutting the incapacity benefit for new claimants deemed unfit for work, have sparked outcry among disability rights advocates and within the government itself. Almost half of families living in poverty include someone who is disabled, and the proposed cuts could exacerbate these challenges.
Mental health problems, which are not a choice, are at the forefront of the debate as the government faces criticism for making it harder for individuals to access the support they need to live with dignity and independence. The Disability Benefits Consortium has condemned the "cruel cuts," highlighting the potential impact on almost one million young people not in education, employment, or training who rely on these benefits.
From April 2026, the basic rate of universal credit for those seeking work or currently employed will see an increase of about £15 a week. However, this increment is overshadowed by the impending cuts. The unpopular workplace capability assessment is set to be scrapped by 2028, but the government is still expected to cut £5 billion from the benefits bill by the end of the decade.
The government is on course for a parliamentary showdown with its backbenchers as they prepare to defend these measures. As the number of working-age people claiming sickness or disability benefits stands at one in ten, and with 3.66 million claimants entitled to Personal Independence Payments (Pips) as of January, these reforms are likely to have far-reaching consequences.
Eligibility criteria for Pips will be tightened, requiring individuals to score four points in at least one activity to qualify for the daily living allowance. This change raises concerns about increased pressure on an already overwhelmed NHS and social care system.
Spending on working-age sickness and disability benefits has surged by £20 billion since the pandemic, with forecasts indicating it will rise by a further £18 billion by the end of this parliament to reach £70 billion annually. The financial strain on the system has been a driving factor behind these reforms, yet critics argue that the cuts will only deepen the nation's mental health crisis.
“Mental health problems are not a choice – but it is a political choice to make it harder for people to access the support they need to live with dignity and independence.” – Sarah Hughes
James Taylor from the Disability Benefits Consortium has voiced strong opposition, stating:
“Life costs more if you are disabled. Ripping £5bn out of the system by 2030 will be a catastrophe for disabled people’s living standards and independence.”
These sentiments are echoed by Charles Gillies, who warned:
“These immoral and devastating benefits cuts will push more disabled people into poverty, and worsen people’s health.”
The government argues that these measures are necessary to manage public spending effectively while maintaining support for those most in need. However, tensions within parliament are rising as lawmakers grapple with balancing fiscal responsibility against ensuring vulnerable individuals receive adequate support.