Silenced Voices? Disabled Groups Threaten to Walk Away Amid Controversial Benefit Cuts

Several Deaf and Disabled People’s Organisations (DDPOs) are contemplating a withdrawal from government collaboration over proposed benefit cuts, expressing frustration at the lack of genuine engagement from the Labour government. The concerns arise as the government begins a 12-week consultation period aimed at gathering views on the cuts, which are projected to make £5 billion in savings by tightening Personal Independence Payment (PIP) eligibility and restricting universal credit top-up payments for those under 22. Sir Stephen Timms, the Minister for Social Security and Disability, stressed the importance of incorporating the perspectives of disabled individuals in this initiative, but there is a distinct feeling among advocacy groups that their input has not been valued.

Fazilet Hadi, of Disability Rights UK, voiced strong anger and betrayal felt among many disabled individuals regarding what she calls a ”massive attack on incomes”. While her organization continues to engage with government discussions, she indicated a readiness to reconsider their involvement based on the broader disabled community’s stance. Svetlana Kotova, from Inclusion London, echoed the sentiment, highlighting fears that the proposed financial cuts would lead to increased poverty among disabled people, including children.

Suspended Labour MP John McDonnell also articulated his shock and anger at the government’s plans, expressing hope for a reversal. The gainful proposals include freezing extra payments for current Universal Credit claimants and significantly reducing them for new applicants, with promises that some savings will fund youth employment programmes. Despite the government’s assertions, there remains skepticism about the true financial impact and reforms. As the consultation deadline approaches, the emergence of ”collaboration committees” with civil servants and disability experts aims to foster discussion and recommendations, but the apprehension among DDPOs reflects broader concerns about representation and accountability in the reform process.