Plans released yesterday outline how the Government will reform the welfare system to save almost £5 billion, with the vast majority coming via cuts to personal independence payments (PIP). However, campaigners have warned that the reforms will drive ‘millions’ of disabled people into ‘even deeper poverty’ and accused the Government of ‘demonising and punishing disabled people.’
Reacting to the publication of the policy, Blyth and Ashington MP Mr Lavery said:
“The so-called ‘Pathways to Work’ Bill, which will strip up to 800,000 people of their PIP, was published yesterday, following months of speculation.
“Despite earlier suggestions that it would be significantly revised in response to public concern, many of the most worrying proposals remain unchanged. Communities like the ones I represent continue to feel the lasting impact of the decline of heavy industry.
“We are dealing with the consequences every day—industrial diseases, widespread poverty, and a mental health crisis. For many, Personal Independence Payment is not a luxury but a lifeline—something that makes everyday life possible.
“I was not elected to this place to make my constituents poorer, and I will oppose this bill with every fibre of my being.”
Rise in PIP Awards since the pandemic in 2019
It comes after Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner refused to rule out punishing rebellious MPs during Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday. Standing in for Keir Starmer, Ms Rayner refused to be drawn on the issue when pressed by SNP MP Pete Wishart.
The Government has pointed out that the number of PIP awards has more than doubled since the pandemic, with 34,000 new awards every month. This has reportedly been driven by a substantial increase in the number of people who report anxiety and depression as their main condition. Before the pandemic (in 2019), 2,500 people a month were awarded PIP for these conditions, this has more than tripled to 8,200 a month in 2023.
Furthermore, the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) say that round 90% of people currently claiming PIP will continue to receive it following the changes.
Responding to Mr Lavery’s comments, a spokeswoman for the Department for Work and Pensions said:
“The vast majority of people who are currently getting PIP will continue to receive it.
“We’re creating a sustainable welfare system that genuinely supports sick and disabled people while always protecting those who need it most. At the heart of this is our review of the PIP assessment to ensure it is fit for the future. We will work with disabled people and a range of experts on this as we deliver our Plan for Change.”
Welfare reform and changes to eligibility requirements for PIP awards
The Bill will introduce new eligibility requirements for the daily living component, meaning claimants will need to score a minimum of at least four points in one of 10 daily living activities (such as the ability to wash oneself) to receive the additional cash which currently stands at a standard rate of £73.90 per week and an enhanced rate of £110.40 per week.
Currently, the claimants can qualify by accumulating a certain number of points across the 10 daily living activities. The Government say the changes will focus the benefit on those with higher needs.
Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said:
“Our social security system is at a crossroads. Unless we reform it, more people will be denied opportunities, and it may not be there for those who need it.
“This legislation represents a new social contract and marks the moment we take the road of compassion, opportunity, and dignity.
“This will give people peace of mind, while also fixing our broken social security system so it supports those who can work to do so, while protecting those who cannot – putting welfare spending on a more sustainable path to unlock growth as part of our Plan for Change.”
Statement from Disability Rights UK
Despite this, charities and campaigners remain concerned. In a statement, campaign group Disability Rights UK said:
“Disability Rights UK is shocked and appalled at the Government’s intended cuts to the benefits that disabled people rely upon.
“Narrowing eligibility for Personal Independence Payment and reducing the health component of Universal Credit, will drive millions of disabled people into even deeper poverty. The Government is demonising and punishing disabled people for the economic failures of successive governments.
“Why isn’t it looking to the rich, to plug its funding gap? This is a very distressing time for disabled people who could be impacted by the proposed changes.
“We will do everything we can to fight them and as part of the disabled people’s movement, will make our voices heard.”
CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO OUR CROWDFUNDER
HELP US BECOME STRONGER SO THAT WE CAN CONTINUE TO DELIVER POWERFUL CITIZEN JOURNALISM!
