Government reforms chip away at support needed by some of the most vulnerable – Robin Swann MP

The Government’s recently proposed reforms to welfare is a case of cost cutting by chipping away at the support required by some of the most vulnerable – this is evident in the planned changes to Personal Independent Payments (PIP).

The aim of ‘getting people into work’ is the rationale behind the Government’s recent moves to cut the benefits bill, and whilst helping those who can work into work is an important objective, measurers such as PIP actually allow those with disabilities and other work-limiting or financially burdensome health issues to enter the world of work – putting them on an equal footing with their colleagues. This is a payment to support independence, which is to ensure that those who face additional costs due to their health are not disadvantaged – it is in addition to work (to help cover the extra costs that a disability or long-term health condition can bring) – not instead of work.

This week I’ve met with both MenCap NI and BraveHearts NI who shared with me the shocking impact that the proposed changes to PIPs will have on those with learning disabilities and those with congenital heart disease respectively. They’re each doing really important work on this issue, and I was pleased to give them my assurances that I will continue to do what I can to stand up for those they represent through my work in Parliament.