Proposed benefit changes
Proposed changes to disability benefits
You might have heard in the news that the Government has announced plans to make changes to Disability benefits.
They have set out their ideas in the ‘Pathways to Work’ green paper. In the next few weeks, the Government will be producing an accessible version of the paper which we will share with customers on this website.
While this might be worrying, it is important to remember that right now these are proposals and nothing is set in stone yet. Also, any changes that are agreed will not happen until November 2026.
Over the coming months, Government has promised to “work closely with disabled people and disabled people’s organisations to ensure their voices shape our proposals.”
Advance is joining with other organisations and disabled people to urge the Government to re-think some of their plans to make sure disabled people are protected.
In a letter to MPs, including the Work and Pensions Secretary, Liz Kendall MP, Julie Layton has said:
“I urge you to listen to the voices and experiences of people with disabilities and draw on the understanding of organisations like Advance to really understand the real-world impact of these proposals and to ensure adequate safeguards are put in place to protect people.
“Reform may be needed, but it cannot come at the cost of disabled people’s independence and dignity.”
We are also joining in with Scope’s ‘Cost of Cuts’ campaign.
You can add your name to Scope’s petition or use their template to write to your MP inviting them to meet with Scope to get a better understanding of the impact benefit cuts could have on disabled people, here.
You will also have the chance to give feedback about the proposals when the Government launches its consultation. We will let you know when that happens and how to get involved.
If you are worried about your benefits
Don’t forget, nothing will change right now. Any changes that are agreed will not happen until November 2026.
Advance is looking at how we can provide additional support for customers around claiming benefits and we will keep you updated about these plans.
In the meantime, you can talk to your Support Worker or Social Worker if you have one.
If you don’t have either of these, your Regional Housing Officer or Housing Outreach Worker will be able to signpost you to help in your area.
There are also some national organisations that can provide information and support, including:
Scope
Turn2us
Citizens Advice
Don’t forget, if you have any concerns about paying your rent, you should get in touch with us as soon as possible so we can provide you with advice and support.