1.2 million disabled people may lose essential benefits

Recent changes to welfare payments will likely affect about 1.2 million disabled people in the UK, risking their financial stability. The announcement of tighter eligibility for personal independence payments (Pip) could result in many individuals losing this critical support. Pip is essential for those with disabilities because it often leads to other benefits. Losing Pip could mean losing help with things like free prescriptions and council tax deductions. Most importantly, for people with caregivers, it could mean the caregiver loses their allowance too, impacting the entire family’s finances. Will Evans, a 29-year-old with fibromyalgia and arthritis, fears not qualifying for Pip under the new rules. He currently relies on Pip, universal credit, and carer’s allowance, shared with his father. If he loses Pip, they would lose over two-thirds of their income, which could be devastating. Will worries that losing access to free prescriptions could affect his health and lead to a severe decline. Rebecca Jenkins, 56, is another example. She cares for her elderly mother while relying on Pip. If she loses her support, she would need to find work and may have to pass her mother’s care to the local authority. This could hurt both their situations. She's also concerned about losing access to other essential services like dental care and transportation. Nicola Herring cares for her son, Francis, who has cerebral palsy. Pip enables them to access necessary treatments that improve his quality of life. Losing financial support would force Nicola to find work, which could mean leaving Francis without the care he needs at home. She is alarmed by the potential cuts and feels it would significantly impact their family. Each of these stories highlights the deep connection between disability benefits and the well-being of families. The government's change could lead to serious consequences for many vulnerable individuals.