Our social security system should be there for us all, especially when we need it most. But the UK government is talking about making huge cuts to disabled people’s support when they’re already three times more likely to face hunger.
A plan to slash payments and rip support from disabled people who most need our collective protection from hunger is cruel and counterproductive.
Layla had to stop working due to long-term health conditions and needed to use a food bank when her disability payments were stopped, despite her conditions not changing. This left her with about £90 a week, which only just covered her housing and bills, but wouldn’t stretch to food.
“Not having enough money to buy essentials is soul-destroying. You have so little control over your income when you’re on social security.”
Having a disability already costs more. These cuts put sick parents at risk of skipping meals so there’s at least something for the kids to eat. People unable to apply for jobs because they can’t afford the bus to interviews, and people becoming even more unwell and less able to recover.
Instead of trying to make short-term savings and slash the incomes of disabled people, we need Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves to listen to real life experiences, recognise their challenges and act on the evidence.
Ahead of the Spring Statement on 26 March, will you join us in making sure the UK government knows these cuts are short-sighted and shameful?
Write to your MP and urge them to call on the Prime Minister to rethink the planned cuts to social security.