Disabled people slam 'terrifying' changes to PIP

Two people with multiple sclerosis (MS) have told the BBC that government plans to reform disability benefits are "terrifying".

The government is planning to change the eligibility criteria for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) as part of its reforms to try and save £5bn.

PIP is paid to people in England and Wales who have difficulty completing everyday tasks or getting around as a result of a long-term physical or mental health condition.

Phoebe Day, from Alton in Hampshire, said the benefit was "a lifejacket for those of us who are drowning with the rubbish situation of having a disability".

Ms Day, who is in her 30s, works for a charity but her MS and severe fatigue have forced her to cut her working hours.

"MS is trying hard to take my career away from me but I am clinging on to it," she told the BBC.

"If I was to lose PIP, I'd have to work another day and ultimately my body would get tired and I'd probably not be able to work at all."

She accused the government of "trying to rip" PIP from disabled people.

"PIP is not a luxury. This is an absolute necessity and it's terrifying and un-stabling, the idea of having it pulled away," she added.

Under the government's plans, the eligibility criteria for the benefit will be tightened up from November 2026, potentially resulting in reduced payments for many.

Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said the government would not "shy away from the decisions that we believe are right to give opportunities to people who can work" but would also maintain "security for those who can't".

She added the changes would ensure "trust and fairness in the social security system, and to ensure it's there for people who need it now and for years to come."

But pensioner John Stainton, also from Hampshire, asked: "Why are people put under such stress and strain when they have a diagnosed disability?

"It's important people work for their own sense of purpose and achievement yes, but we do need to make sure there is a safety net so disabled people are OK."

Mr Stainton, who also has MS, was forced to retire in his early 60s due to ill health.

He was initially refused PIP, before successfully taking the Department of Work and Pensions to court.

He said the benefit "just means I don't have to worry about spending more on small things which improve my quality of life".

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