Martin Lewis warns of 'real human impact' over DWP PIP reform proposals

Disability rights advocates and welfare campaigners have reacted with horror to "divisive" government plans that could see Personal Independence Payments (PIP) stopped for more than three million people who need extra help in their day-to-day lives.

Under Conservative proposals announced this month, the disability benefit worth more than £5,600 a year to those with the greatest need, could become a voucher-based system for purchasing accessibilty equipment. But money guru Martin Lewis has some reassurance for those who are worried by the government plans.

The government announced its crackdown amid a sharp rise in PIP claims following the pandemic, with around a quarter of the UK population now living with some form of disability. Because of this, Rishi Sunak's focus in his speech on mentally ill PIP claimants has left some worried that their payments could stop, but Martin Lewis pointed out the political context that means it is likely just a lot of "hot air".

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The Money Saving Expert, concerned by the messages he was receiving from his disabled readers, said on X: "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."

Much of the details around the government's crackdown on benefits payments, announced at the Ian Duncan Smith-founded Centre for Social Justice, were laid out in a green paper published yesterday, including a consultation on plans to scrap the cash payment entirely. But, Mr Lewis pointed out: "That is an EARLY STAGE consultation document. After that may come a white paper - These things are not quick, if they happen."

The Conservative government is currently trailing the opposition Labour Party, in an average of all polls, by at least 20 per cent - and the Money Saving Expert explained why this is an important context for the supposed crackdown on benefits.

He said: "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."

The Disability Poverty Campaign Group, representing different disability groups, echoed Martin Lewis in their response to the government's proposals: "We know the Prime Minister and his government are seeking to weaponise Disabled people's poverty with their dishonest and divisive rhetoric to hide the deficiencies of their own failed legislation and years in office.

"We know they are playing games to secure media attention in the run up to a general election in which their party is expected to loss many of their MPs. We know some of those MPs are seeking to keep their seats by seemingly stoking division. "