Martin Lewis speaks out over DWP PIP benefits crackdown and says 'if you're worried'

Martin Lewis has spoken out over the proposals for the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to axe payments for PIP and introduce different eligibility and assessment criteria amid a benefits crackdown. The BBC Sounds podcast host responded to the government green paper on Twitter, now X, today.

Mr Lewis, an ITV regular, said: "I want to say something to the people with mental health conditions that have got in touch with me worried / panicked about the govt news on possible benefits changes... NOTHING HAS HAPPENED.

"The govt has put out a green paper. That is an EARLY STAGE consultation document. After that may come a white paper. - These things are not quick, if they happen, and this is a general election year - so whether it will happen at a question.

" This type of debate is given attention to create political news and put clear water between parties in an election year. Sadly doing that in the area of mental health, can have a real human impact, terrifying people about changes that may never happen.

"So if you're worried about it, while I know its easy to say and hard to do, forget it - for now it is still political hot air." In reply, a fan said: "I hope it stays just that. I have brain issues too now because of damage caused by brain cancer but it’s all head related stuff. Though a big gap in my head and hole in my skull shows up on scans at least."

"However, their work is done. The disabled and sick have been labelled as "scroungers" fleecing the poor innocent taxpayer. That's the aim. Division and demonisation to distract from the fact that THEY are robbing us blind," another said.

And a third fumed: "Everyone needs to make a lot of noise about it. If the suggestion is green paper is met with indifference they will push on with it. Get vocal, sign petitions & make a loud objection. They will then say it was just a suggestion & back down."

"Those in charge should not be playing games which will have a direct impact on those who need help the most. They show no thought to those it will impact even if it never happens, the threat is there," another said.

"You know. Even if it’s early stage. It stokes hatred. We can have cost of living payments but not cash. Make it make sense and object to these changes in the strongest possible terms. Use your platform for good," another begged.