Disability Allowance Cuts – Personal Independence Payments (PIP)

 

While I understand any Government must keep public spending under review and support pathways into employment, I’m very concerned about the way this Government is setting targets to cut benefits before they’ve properly understood the extent of the need and the challenge.

Many recipients of disability allowances face challenges that make employment unattainable, while others rely on Personal Independance Payments (PIP) to maintain their ability to work. Restricting eligibility for these vital allowances will not achieve the Government’s stated aim of increasing employment opportunities.

My Liberal Democrat Parliamentary colleagues and I have always advocated for a more constructive approach to reducing benefit spending—one that prioritises fixing health and social care systems. This includes investing in preventative health measures, increasing the public health grant, ensuring robust mental health support (particularly for young people), and reforming social care. These measures address the root causes of welfare dependency and provide meaningful support to those who need it most.

We would further raise public funding by reversing the Conservatives’ tax cuts on the banks and large corporations, making large oil and energy companies pay more from their windfall profits, and ensuring the tech giants pay their way.

I will oppose any Government legislation which jeopardises the well-being of those relying on disability allowance payments. It is crucial that we stand together to protect the rights and dignity of disabled people.