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SIA statement on government concessions to Welfare Reform Bill
Spinal Injuries Association acknowledges the Government’s decision to introduce limited concessions to the Universal Credit and PIP reform proposals. While protecting existing claimants from the worst of the cuts is a modest step forward, it falls far short of what is needed.
Let us be clear: these changes are not rooted in fairness, compassion, or equality. They are politically motivated, a response to growing pressure from backbench MPs, designed to ease the Bill’s passage through Parliament and to placate current constituents, while leaving future generations of disabled people exposed.
We are deeply concerned that the Government’s plans would establish a two-tier welfare system. Under the proposals, individuals who acquire life-changing conditions such as spinal cord injury, acquired brain injury, paralysis, amputation, or other comparable conditions after 2026 will face significantly harsher treatment than those living with the same conditions today.
How can the impact of a catastrophic diagnosis or traumatic injury be considered any less severe simply because it happens after an arbitrary date? That is not the mark of a fair or just society.
Worryingly, MPs are being asked to vote on this legislation without full information about its long-term impact on their constituents. The Government’s decision to compress the parliamentary timetable for scrutiny reinforces the concern that this Bill is being rushed through without proper debate, transparency, or accountability.
We remain resolute in our position: these reforms are not fit for purpose. We fully support the reasoned amendment calling for the Bill to be withdrawn until a comprehensive and transparent impact assessment is conducted and meaningful consultation with disabled people takes place.
This is not just a question of policy detail. It is a test of national values, of whether we choose to treat disabled people with dignity, fairness, and respect.
We urge MPs from all parties to reject these superficial concessions, stand up for the rights of disabled people, and vote against this legislation.
