Welfare Reforms

On 18th March, The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions announced a series of reforms to the welfare system.

I understand that many of my constituents will be worried about what this means for them and their disability benefits, especially in light of the rumours surrounding the announcement. Please be assured that there are no immediate changes and a 12 week consultation is now open for you to give your thoughts. 

The government have released a series of FAQs which may help you to understand what the changes mean in the short term. Please read on:

1. Will I still get my payments as normal?
Yes, please be assured there will be no immediate changes to your health and disability related benefit payment. 

2. Will my claim be affected?
No, there will be no immediate changes to your health and disability-related claim. If you have made a claim or are getting a health and disability-related benefit you should continue to contact us as usual and provide any information or changes to your circumstances and current needs. 

3. When will the changes to health and disability benefits be made?
We are consulting on our proposed changes to health and disability benefits. The consultation will be open for at least 12 weeks and no changes will be made until we have reviewed all the responses. You are welcome to take part in the consultation.

4. Will my benefits change immediately?
No, please be assured there will be no immediate changes to your health and disability related benefit payment. 

5. I’ve submitted a claim but haven’t heard the outcome, will my claim be affected?
No, there will be no immediate changes to your health and disability related claim. If you have made a claim or are getting a health and disability related benefit you should continue to contact us as usual and provide any information or changes to your circumstances and current needs. 

6. When will the changes to health and disability benefits be made?
We are consulting on our proposed changes to health and disability benefits. The consultation will be open for at least 12 weeks and no changes will be made until we have reviewed all the responses. You are welcome to take part in the consultation. 

The full Green Paper is available to read here: Pathways to Work: Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working Green Paper - GOV.UK

There are a number of ways to respond to the consultation:

• Respond online - Pathways to Work: Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working
• Email - [email protected]
• Write - Disability and Health Support Directorate
  Department for Work and Pensions
  Level 2
  Caxton House
  Tothill Street
  London
  SW1H 9NA