Benefits Rates People with Disabilities 2022-06-06
2022-06-06
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The question arises from concerns about the adequacy of disability benefits amid a cost-of-living crisis disproportionately affecting disabled individuals. More than half of those living in poverty are either disabled or live with a disabled person.
I am concerned that despite welcome increases, many constituents say existing help is insufficient due to rising costs. Will the Government consider further targeted support?
I share the hon. Lady's concern and acknowledge that the government has acted by providing a package worth over £22 billion, including DWP disability cost of living payments set to be made by September. We recognize these needs and prioritize support for those with disabilities.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Specific targeted further help was not committed beyond existing measures
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
Some disabled individuals are set to lose £150 due to the removal of eligibility for warm home discount and receive an additional £150 from the cost-of-living emergency package. This offsets no gain, leaving them in dire financial straits.
How does the Minister believe this merely offsetting move addresses the cost-of-living crisis faced by disabled people?
We are targeting support to households with the lowest incomes as advised by Resolution Foundation and Joseph Rowntree Foundation. We recognize additional costs faced by disabled people, hence we are putting in place a £150 targeted on those with means-tested lowest incomes.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Does not directly address whether the approach genuinely alleviates cost of living for disabled individuals
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The Government's disability strategy was ruled unlawful by the High Court. NatCen Social Research reports highlight severe poverty among many disabled individuals.
Given that some disabled people will not be better off with current measures, does the Minister think it is time to start listening to disabled people and addressing their cost of living crisis?
We are taking a means-tested approach as advised by Resolution Foundation, targeting support to those with the lowest incomes including disabled individuals on unemployment or universal credit.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Did not address why feedback from disabled communities has not led to more effective action
Changing Subject
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The cost-of-living crisis disproportionately affects disabled individuals. More than half of those in poverty are either disabled or live with a disabled person.
Given the inadequacies, will the Government provide additional targeted support to alleviate pressures on disabled individuals?
We are providing generous support and have acted with a £22 billion package, including DWP disability cost of living payments by September. We recognise the need here.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Did not commit to further targeted help beyond existing measures
Response accuracy