Campaigners are raising alarms over the UK government's proposed welfare cuts, warning that they will have "disastrous consequences" for disabled individuals and their families. In March 2025, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a £5 billion reduction in benefits, which is set to affect over three million people, primarily those claiming sickness and disability benefits. This announcement has stirred widespread criticism as it could lead to losses of up to £12,000 annually for some individuals.
Among those impacted, approximately 370,000 disabled individuals are projected to lose an average of £4,500 per year by the fiscal year 2029/30. Additionally, around 2.25 million current recipients of the health component of Universal Credit will see their benefits frozen, resulting in an average loss of £500 per year. Campaigners from various charities, including Scope and Disabled People Against Cuts, voiced their concerns during a parliamentary session on May 7, 2025. They stressed that the proposed cuts would "take safety away from people" who are already struggling to make ends meet.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has defended its stance, claiming that the cuts are designed to incentivize individuals to return to work. The government has also pledged £1 billion towards employment support, promising that those with severe conditions will be supported for life without reassessment. Furthermore, the DWP plans to eliminate the work capability assessment for those applying for Universal Credit.
However, critics argue that the government's approach is misguided. James Taylor, executive director of Scope, challenged the logic behind the cuts, stating, "It's bizarre thinking that removing money from people suddenly helps them find work." He emphasized the need for continued financial support and investment in Special Educational Needs systems and disability employment schemes.
Campaigners also highlighted the precarious state of employment for disabled individuals, noting that many are pushed into jobs that lack flexibility. According to a survey by Unison, 74% of disabled workers who requested reasonable adjustments had their requests denied, which severely impacts their ability to work effectively. Mikey Erhardt, campaigns and policy officer at Disability Rights UK, pointed out that the current job market often places disabled workers in physically and mentally demanding positions, exacerbating their struggles.
Moreover, leaked internal data from the DWP has revealed that the cuts will disproportionately affect families already living in poverty. The data indicates that 700,000 families will be impacted, with an additional 250,000 people expected to fall below the poverty line as a result of the reforms. Overall, the DWP estimates that 3.2 million families across Great Britain will lose out due to the cuts.
Mark Harrison of Disabled People Against Cuts expressed the fear these proposed cuts are generating, criticizing the government for demonizing disabled individuals in a manner reminiscent of previous administrations. "Being disabled already puts you at a higher risk of living in poverty," stated Katie Schmuecker, principal policy adviser at the Joseph Rowntree Foundation. She warned that these cuts could force many disabled individuals to rely on food banks for basic necessities.
In response to these concerns, a government spokesperson defended the reforms, asserting that they aim to create a sustainable welfare system that supports individuals in finding work and escaping poverty. The spokesperson emphasized the introduction of a fair repayment rate on Universal Credit deductions, alongside an increase in the national living wage and uprated benefits.
Additionally, the proposed reforms outlined in the Green Paper, "Pathways to Work: Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working," have raised specific concerns regarding the assessment process for the health element of Universal Credit. Critics fear that relying solely on the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessment could hinder access to support for disabled individuals in Scotland, where PIP has been replaced by the Adult Disability Payment (ADP).
Wendy Chamberlain MP has questioned the DWP's commitment to ensuring that Scottish residents are not disadvantaged by the changes, expressing concern over the lack of a detailed plan for how the passporting of benefits will work. "I know that benefit changes can be incredibly stressful. I am determined that people in Scotland living with disabilities and health problems will not fall through the gaps of these reforms," she stated.
As the government prepares to finalize these welfare cuts, MPs are expected to vote on the proposed measures following the conclusion of a consultation period ending on June 30, 2025. With the stakes high, campaigners continue to urge the government to reconsider its approach, warning that the current trajectory could lead to severe consequences for some of the most vulnerable members of society.
The impact of these welfare cuts extends beyond financial losses; they may also deepen the existing mistrust in the welfare system among disabled individuals. As Taylor pointed out, many feel they are being "written off and punished" for needing support. The current benefits system has been described as "not fit for purpose," with a consistent lack of engagement and trust from job centers.
With life costs estimated to be £1,010 more per year for the average disabled household, the urgency for reform is palpable. The fear is that the cuts will strip away essential safety nets for those already facing significant challenges, leaving them vulnerable to further hardship.
As the consultation period approaches its conclusion, the call for action from campaigners and organizations advocating for disabled individuals continues to grow. They emphasize that the government must prioritize the well-being of its citizens and ensure that those who rely on disability benefits are treated with dignity and respect.
The government has been approached for comment regarding the ongoing backlash against the proposed welfare cuts. For individuals affected by the issues discussed in this article, support is available through organizations such as Samaritans, which can be reached at 116 123.
