Business reporters, Tom Espiner and Charlotte Edwards, stated that the government is preparing to announce cuts to welfare spending this week. The prime minister has described the current system as “unsustainable, indefensible, and unfair.” Among the areas expected to be heavily impacted by the cuts are long-term sickness and disability benefits, particularly Personal Independence Payment (PIP), which may face a reduction of £5 billion.
The total welfare bill has reached £64 billion annually, largely due to an increase in the number of people claiming health-related benefits long term. Some believe that reforming the system could encourage claimants to either work or work more. However, many individuals are apprehensive about how the cuts might impact their ability to pay bills and are concerned about having to take on jobs they may struggle to manage on their own.
Alison, a 56-year-old residing in a council property in Southampton, expresses feeling “sick” at the thought of these potential cuts. Diagnosed with depression, anxiety, and PTSD stemming from childhood traumas, she also experiences panic attacks and night terrors. Currently receiving PIP and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) amounting to approximately £1,700 per month, she believes it would be challenging for her to handle the demands of a job.
Emily, a 41-year-old resident of Croydon who is autistic, finds it difficult to establish a proper routine due to her condition. While she now works full-time as a flight attendant, she encountered challenges getting employment opportunities in the past due to her autism. Emily receives over £400 monthly in PIP payments, primarily used to cover regular bills. Despite her struggles, she emphasizes that she is not a “scrounger” and values the financial support she receives to make work commutes more affordable
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