Labour is punishing disabled people
The Scottish Greens have condemned plans to remove sickness and disability benefits for young people under 25, in a move the party calls “shameful”.
A report carried out on behalf of the UK government by former Labour health secretary Alan Milburn, is reported to include recommendations to remove the ability to claim the health element for Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment for anyone under the age of 25.
Scottish Greens Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Health, Kayleigh Kinross-O’Neill MSP says these plans will only widen the financial gap that disabled young people face, pushing them further into poverty.
Kayleigh said:
“Sickness and disability do not wait until a person’s 25th birthday to become an active challenge in everyday life. Any move that reduces support for young disabled people only widens the gap they face in participating in society.
“On average, it costs a family with a disabled or seriously ill child around £3000 to £7000 more in outgoings per year. The health element of benefit claims goes directly towards the vital support they need to survive.
“For young disabled people trying to live any sort of independent life, being eligible to claim financial support can be the catalyst to help them remain in education or work, rather than deterring them.
“Once again, this UK Labour government is opting to shamefully target a vulnerable group with another cost-cutting exercise, instead of balancing the books by introducing measures like a proper wealth tax, or ensuring the richest people and organisations who can pay their fair share will put their short arms in their deep pockets.”