The UN has sharply criticised the Government’s proposed welfare reforms, warning they could significantly worsen poverty among disabled people. Following a recent parliamentary vote that passed the benefits bill by 75 votes, secured only after last-minute concessions to Labour rebels, the UN’s committee on the rights of persons with disabilities has raised ten pressing concerns about the legislation. Key issues include politicians’ rhetoric suggesting disabled individuals exploit benefits and the reforms’ potential impact on young claimants, women with disabilities, and those requiring high-level support. The UN warns that the bill could deepen existing economic hardship, echoing findings from earlier reports which linked previous welfare cuts to increased food bank reliance, homelessness, and mental health crises. Disability advocates have condemned the reforms as punitive, urging MPs to consider the profound human consequences before advancing the legislation. Parliament will further debate the bill in the coming days, amid mounting national and international scrutiny. See
UN criticises Starmer’s welfare reforms
Written by David Fletcher 10 Jul 2025
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- Pray: for justice, compassion, and courage as leaders decide welfare policies affecting society’s most vulnerable. (Proverbs 31:8)
- More: news.sky.com/story/un-criticises-starmers-welfare-reforms-and-warns-measures-will-increase-poverty-rates-13394228