Displaying items by tag: welfare reform

The UK Government is facing pressure to widen access to its proposed “top tier” sickness benefits, following concerns that people with fluctuating conditions such as Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis (MS) may be unfairly excluded. Under current Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) proposals, only those whose symptoms “constantly” prevent work would qualify for enhanced universal credit and be exempt from regular medical reassessments. Labour MP Graeme Downie has tabled an amendment to expand eligibility to those with “evolving” or fluctuating conditions. He argues that the cost of living with conditions like Parkinson’s - where even simple daily tasks may require expensive alternatives - requires consistent financial support. Parkinson’s UK and other campaigners support the change, warning that current criteria fail to reflect the live realities of such illnesses. While ministers have agreed to remove similar restrictive clauses from the personal independence payment (PIP) system, the universal credit health element still raises concern. With cross-party backing, the amendment seeks to ensure compassion and fairness for those whose disabilities vary in severity from hour to hour.

Labour’s welfare reform bill was plunged into turmoil after the government dropped plans to tighten eligibility for PIP, one of its core cost-saving measures. Facing fierce backlash and the threat of a major rebellion, Disability minister Sir Stephen Timms announced that changes to PIP would be delayed pending a full review, co-produced with disabled people. The last-minute concession has caused confusion among MPs, leaving uncertainty over the bill’s financial viability. Despite earlier compromises, numerous Labour MPs remain opposed, warning the reforms could deepen poverty and harm disabled people. Emotional speeches in Parliament underscored divisions, with some MPs moved to tears as they denounced the bill as unjust. Critics argue the concessions feel rushed and insufficient, while government ministers insist reforms are vital to sustain the welfare system. Poverty impact assessments indicate that even with changes, around 150,000 more people could be pushed into poverty by 2030. The fate of the bill remains uncertain as further votes loom and disquiet grows within Labour ranks.

Keir Starmer faces internal unrest over controversial welfare reforms, with up to 120 Labour MPs backing an amendment to block the legislation. The proposed bill would tighten eligibility for Personal Independence Payments (PIP) and limit sickness-related Universal Credit, changes critics say could harm thousands of vulnerable people. The Government insists the system is broken and must be reformed, aiming for royal assent by November to meet budget targets. Facing growing opposition, ministers are reportedly open to concessions, though details remain uncertain. Shadow ministers say the reforms should align with Labour values and protect the most vulnerable. Some officials suggest amendments may be considered later, while others expect the bill to pass narrowly without changes. With political pressure mounting and intense behind-the-scenes negotiations under way, the outcome may determine not only the fate of the reforms but also Starmer’s ability to hold his party together on sensitive social policy. Breaking news: the Government is set to do a U-turn on this policy. See

The Government has announced major welfare reforms aimed at cutting costs and encouraging work. The changes include stricter eligibility for Personal Independence Payments (PIP), reduced incapacity benefits, and new work incentives. From November 2026, PIP eligibility criteria will tighten, making it harder to qualify for support with daily living tasks. However, those with severe, lifelong conditions will no longer face reassessments. Incapacity benefits under Universal Credit will freeze at £97 per week from April 2025 and drop to £50 per week for new claimants in 2026. Young people under 22 will lose access to incapacity benefit top-ups, with funds redirected to training programs. To ease fears about job loss, those trying work will not face automatic reassessments. The government is investing £1bn to help disabled people and those with long-term conditions to enter the workforce. See