Our statement on the Autumn Budget 2024

The recent Autumn Budget presented by Chancellor Rachel Reeves offers a blend of promising advancements and key areas where further attention is needed to support people with disabilities, particularly those with complex mobility needs like spinal cord injuries.

Positive aspects

A significant highlight is the commitment to substantial NHS investment aimed at improving healthcare infrastructure and reducing waiting times. This focus on the NHS is a strong step toward ensuring that people with disabilities, including those with spinal injuries, have more timely access to critical health services. If effectively implemented, the funding promises to address the gaps in healthcare availability, which are particularly challenging for those requiring specialised, ongoing support.

The budget also brings positive news for carers, with a raise in Carer’s Allowance that recognizes the essential role of caregivers in supporting people with spinal injuries and other disabilities. This increase provides crucial financial support to those dedicating themselves to caring for others, often at a personal cost, and is a meaningful step towards valuing their commitment.

Concerns to address

While the budget reflects some needed investments, there are concerns around welfare and housing policies. The planned reduction of £3 billion in welfare spending over the next four years, including potential restrictions on long-term sickness benefits, poses challenges for people with disabilities who depend on these resources for independent living. It will be essential to ensure that any revisions to benefit eligibility consider the unique needs of individuals with severe disabilities to avoid exacerbating existing hardships.

Additionally, the housing policy in the budget has not mandated a specific percentage of new builds to be wheelchair accessible. With over 400,000 wheelchair users in the UK living in unsuitable housing, the lack of accessibility requirements within the government’s new housing developments is a missed opportunity to support truly inclusive communities. A portion of new homes dedicated to accessibility would better reflect an inclusive housing strategy and enable greater independence and quality of life for those with mobility needs.

We remain encouraged by the budget’s healthcare investments and will continue to work closely with policymakers to advocate for necessary improvements in housing and social support. It is crucial that future government policies balance fiscal responsibility with the lived realities of disabled individuals such as people with spinal cord injuries, to build a more inclusive and equitable society.