DWP accused of cruel and 'harmful' strategy as disabled people 'fear losing benefits'

The Government has been criticised over its plans to make it harder for people to take time off work sick as its language around benefits was labelled as "harmful". A disability charity claimed the Government's stance towards people on sickness benefits was only likely to increase the stigma around taking time off work and harden attitudes towards people on benefits generally.

Rishi Sunak announced the plans last week to strip GPs of powers to sign people off work amid claims too many workers were taking time off when they could be at work. Ministers say too much money is being spent on sickness-related benefits.

More people take time off work with mental health problems than any other condition and the Government has been accused of being cruel and uncaring towards people with these conditions. Sarah Brown-Fraser, head of communications and Policy at Activity Alliance, said disabled people lived in fear of losing their benefits, particularly if they do anything which involves getting around or physical activity, like taking part in sport, as they worry it could show they no longer require the support.

READ MORE: BT issues message to millions of households as traditional landline phones to be 'switched off'

Get breaking news on BirminghamLive WhatsApp

Win a VIP three-night Butlins Big Weekender break for adults

She said: “We echo the concerns expressed about the Government’s proposed reforms to fit notes and wider welfare support. The narrative around it is harmful and not focused on what support is required nor meeting the needs of everyone.

"In the week we released our manifesto calling upon the next Government to put inclusion at its heart, we are disappointed to see the negative portrayal of disabled people and benefit recipients yet again. The Activity Trap research shows that almost half of disabled people fear losing their benefits if they are seen to be physically active.

"One of the asks in our manifesto is for the benefits system to provide clearer understanding and wider safeguarding to reassure disabled people that being regularly active will not threaten their benefits and other forms of Government financial assistance. That includes in any proposed changes to Personal Independence Payment, Work Capability Assessment, or other benefits.

“Disabled people should be able to enjoy the physical and mental wellbeing benefits that sport and physical activity brings. Yet the kind of language and messages being used by the Government may force people further from that, for fear of losing support."