“I am a single parent of two children. My family's benefits will change – but I wonder if these changes will end up costing the Government more than they save.” Anon, Glasgow.
The UK Government is currently making big changes to the welfare benefits system.
Many people who have learning disabilities use welfare benefits to meet the additional costs of their ensure they live the most independent life possible.
Some of the changes that have been announced include:
· Disability Living Allowance reform
· The closure of the Independent Living Fund
· The introduction of the Universal Credit
· A cap on household benefits
· Changes to eligibility for housing benefit
A new Welfare Reform Committee has been established in the Scottish Parliament to discuss the impact of welfare reform in Scotland. Click here to visit the Committee's webpage.
On Tuesday 24 April 2012, Mike Holmes, ENABLE
Scotland's Exective Director of Campaigns, appeared in front of the Committee and told MSPs of increasing fears of a "perfect storm" facing people who have learning disabilities. Click here to catch up with the evidence session.
We are keen to hear from you about how these changes have affected you, or how they may affect you in the future. If you are willing to speak to us and allow us to use your stories, please contact Andrew Strong in the first instance and tell him how you or your family are being affected. You can also complete our case study template and send it to andrew.strong@enable.org.uk.
Latest News
16 May 2012: The Scottish Parliament's Welfare Reform Committee has published a report on a Bill proposed to seek to limit the widespread impact of welfare reform. Click here to read the report.
1 May 2012: ENABLE Scotland has responded to the UK Government's 2nd draft criteria for the Personal Independence Payment. Click here to view our response.
30 April 2012: New evidence compiled by the Learning Disability Alliance Scotland suggests that thousands of people who have learning disabilities across Scotland will be worse off as a result of changes to Disability Living Allowance. More information here.