Government’s proposed cuts to disability benefits will be devastating for disabled people

18 June 2025 – Responding to the government’s Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill, Sense, the national disability charity, says the proposed cuts to disability benefits will have “devastating consequences”.

James Watson-O’Neill, Chief Executive of the disability charity Sense, said:

“The government’s proposed cuts to disability benefits will have devastating consequences for disabled people across the country – pushing thousands further into poverty, hardship, and isolation.

“Many disabled people already find themselves in debt because current benefits don’t stretch far enough. Cutting support further at a time when the cost of living remains high is not only unjust — it is cruel.

“We urge MPs to listen to disabled people and reject this legislation. Our welfare system should support those who need it most — not abandon them.”

Sense, which supports disabled people with complex needs, has raised particular concern over the proposed removal of the Limited Capability for Work or Work-Related Activity (LCWRA) element of Universal Credit.

James Watson-O’Neill added:

“We’re especially alarmed by plans to cut the Universal Credit uplift for those with the greatest barriers to work. Many of the disabled people and families we support have told us they’re frightened — uncertain how they’ll afford food, heating, or other basic needs without this vital support. This comes on top of worrying changes to PIP, which we’ve heard from many of our disabled staff and community helps them to stay in work.”