A recent analysis by the BBC Shared Data Unit revealed that teenagers with incurable conditions are being stripped of disability benefits at an alarming rate after their 16th birthdays. Nearly one-third of individuals who previously received Disability Living Allowance (DLA) in childhood had their claims for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) rejected when transitioning to the adult benefit. This has sparked concerns, with Disability charity Scope attributing the rejections to a “complex, adversarial, and difficult to navigate” system.
The rejected claims predominantly involve conditions that may be managed more effectively by adults, such as diabetes or asthma. However, thousands of young people living with life-changing conditions like cancer, blindness, psychosis, deafness, and epilepsy have also been denied PIP since its inception in 2013. The case of Holly Crouch, who was refused PIP despite being at risk of life-threatening epileptic seizures, exemplifies the challenges faced by those transitioning to adult benefits.
Holly Crouch, who had dreams of becoming an air steward, shared her struggles after being denied PIP, stating that she lost three jobs due to her epilepsy and now relies on others for everyday tasks. The uncertainty and financial strain imposed by the benefit rejection have left many young people feeling neglected and unsupported. Scope’s executive director of strategy, James Taylor, emphasized the need for urgent government intervention to address the significant number of young people losing out on essential financial support.
Despite reassurances that appeals can be lodged, and some individuals receive higher awards under PIP than DLA, concerns persist regarding the flawed assessment process. Many claimants have been denied benefits despite the profound impact of their disabilities on daily life. Organizations advocating for disabled individuals, such as the Royal National Institute for Blind People and the Epilepsy Society, are urging the government to swiftly reform the welfare system to ensure fair and just outcomes
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