What we need from the new government
Ruth Owen
Our Chief Executive Ruth Owen says the new government need to act quickly to support disabled people in the cost of living crisis.
Liz Truss must announce new, immediate measures targeting those in the greatest need – especially those on low incomes and disabled people, who are hit particularly hard by increasing prices.
We live in times of political change and urgent need. After the drama of a leadership race, we need a leader committed to delivering decisive action to deal with a cost of living crisis that affects so many people – and disproportionately affects disabled people.
As their first port of call, Liz Truss must announce new, immediate measures targeting those in the greatest need – especially those on low incomes and disabled people, who are hit particularly hard by increasing prices.
Rising energy costs
Given next month’s 80% rise in the energy price cap, there really is no time to waste. We’ve heard that some disabled people are already choosing between essential things like charging their wheelchair or eating a meal. This is shocking and deeply concerning as we approach the winter months.
The Prime Minister must act quickly by increasing benefits in line with inflation. The government must restore eligibility for the Warm Home Discount for everyone receiving Personal Independence Payment (PIP). The government also needs to work with Ofgem and energy companies to create a social tariff for disabled people who have high energy usage due to their disability.
We need to fund social care
Social care is still chronically underfunded, with a workforce crisis that leaves many people without even the most basic care that they need. While Liz Truss recently acknowledged the need for social care funding during the leadership race, both social care and the NHS need much more funding than is currently committed. We need clear plans so disabled people of all ages can get the crucial support they need – enabling them to live their lives, go to work and see their family and friends.
A sustainable funding plan for social care is crucial, alongside a firm commitment that recent social care reforms will be implemented. An August report from the Levelling Up Committee showed social care needs at least an additional £7.1 billion just to plug gaps in existing funding. It’s a mounting crisis that must be addressed.
So as the new Prime Minister maps out their priorities, disabled people absolutely need to see long-term solutions for social care funding so they can live their lives to the full.
The government needs to do more
Disabled people are telling us they are scared, and out of solutions. We all believe the government must immediately increase benefits to reflect the real cost of living. Do you?