Benefits System Bereaved Families 2026-06-29
2026-06-29
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
A petition calling for reform of the bereavement support payment has gathered over 100,000 signatures and is supported by various organizations. Many families in Redditch are affected by these issues.
Before the parliamentary debate on the petition calling for reform of the bereavement support payment, will the Minister engage with Widows Fight UK to ensure that all families facing this heartbreak have the support they deserve?
I recognise the strong interest in this issue. I was aware of the petition, as well as the campaigning work that my hon. Friend has done in this space. I am very happy to receive any information that that organisation wishes to send to me in advance of the debate on the petition, and I look forward to participating in it.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
A petition calling for the uprating of the bereavement support payment has gathered over 100,000 signatures and is supported by organizations such as Widowed and Young and Gingerbread. The rising cost of living since the payment was introduced in 2017 means it has not been adjusted.
Will the Government commit to uprating the support payment in line with inflation for 2026-27 and review the 18-month limit?
The hon. Member raises an important point. BSP is reviewed annually as part of the wider uprating process, so it would not be appropriate for me to make that commitment today. BSP is limited to 18 months because it is designed to support the acute period following bereavement. Longer-term financial support is delivered through the wider welfare system.
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Assessment & feedback
specific commitment on uprating and reviewing the limit
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Members of bereaved families in Stratford-on-Avon have raised concerns about the rising cost of living and the 18-month limit on the bereavement support payment.
Will the Government commit to uprating the support payment in line with inflation for 2026-27 and review the 18-month limit?
The hon. Member raises an important point. BSP is reviewed annually as part of the wider uprating process, so it would not be appropriate for me to make that commitment today. BSP is limited to 18 months because it is designed to support the acute period following bereavement. Longer-term financial support is delivered through the wider welfare system.
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Assessment & feedback
specific commitment on uprating and reviewing the limit
Response accuracy