UK disability benefit cuts impact million, affect carers

The UK government's recent cuts to disability benefits will affect around one million people and may also have serious consequences for unpaid carers. The changes are part of a welfare reform green paper published on March 18, which suggests that the government might consider temporary "transitional protection" for those losing their eligibility for Personal Independence Payment (PIP). Helen Walker, the chief executive of Carers UK, expressed concern that these cuts could harm both disabled individuals and the unpaid carers who support them. She highlighted that many unpaid carers are already struggling financially and that raising the qualifying threshold for support could worsen their situation. Currently, 1.2 million unpaid carers in the UK live in poverty, with 400,000 in deep poverty. The planned changes to PIP might also affect the Carer’s Allowance, which is crucial for many caregivers. Over half of the Carer’s Allowance awards depend on PIP. Additionally, a significant percentage of carers have disabilities themselves, making it difficult for them to maintain employment while providing care. Most current PIP claimants will likely not lose their benefits due to these changes. However, those whose PIP award is solely based on daily living expenses and do not meet certain criteria could be negatively impacted. Losing PIP can also lead to reduced overall benefits due to the benefit cap, which limits how much someone can receive. Some benefits, such as the Disabled Persons Railcard and housing benefit disability premium, remain accessible to PIP claimants. However, those who do not receive PIP may still qualify for certain benefits if they have specific disabilities. The Department for Work and Pensions did not comment on the situation. The ongoing changes highlight concerns among many about the support available to those who are already vulnerable.