Thursday 12 January 2012

Disability Living Allowance - the perfect storm



As the coalition Government continues to impose draconian cuts on working class people in the United Kingdom, while at the same time attempting (and failing) to create the false illusion "we are all in this together" ; however the disabled movement is fighting back.

We have already witnessed the introduction of the flawed Workplace Capability Assessment where around 4 in 10 of those judged fit for work have the decision overturned on appeal.


Now proposed changes to Disability Living Allowance are currently in the House of Lords.  These cuts seek to reduce the cost to the Government of providing Disability Living Allowance by 20%, a conveniently round amount of savings, after which they attempt to claim that the lives of disabled people will be improved.


Not surprisingly the disabled movement is not standing back and accepting these cuts and a report on the proposals, Responsible Reform has been written researched and funded by disabled people, their friends and carers. This report clearly shows that the majority of those who responded were overwhlemingly against the proposals yet the Government is forging ahead with its attack on disabled people, apparently ignoring the views of individuals and organisations who took the time to respond.


Pat Onions, recognising the fact that many disabled people cannot attend public demonstrations such as the Hardest Hit Rally in Edinburgh on the 22nd October and the STUC's People First on October 1st  to fight for their rights has launched an e-petition on the UK Government's website to ensure their views are aired . The petition urges the Government to stop and review the cuts to benefits and services which are falling disproportionately on disabled people their carers and their families.


This petition currently has 14401 signatures and is open until the 1st December 2012. We would urge readers of this blog to sign Pat's Petition and help reach the 100000 required to secure a debate in the UK Parliament on this issue.

Ian Tasker
STUC



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