Government Announces Major Welfare Reforms to Support Disabled People into Work

The Government has announced the biggest changes to the welfare system in a generation, aiming to support disabled people and those with long-term health conditions into work. The reforms, backed by a £1 billion investment, were revealed by the Work & Pensions Secretary on Tuesday, 18 March.

What Are the Key Changes?

The reforms focus on helping those who can and want to work by providing tailored support, including:

• Increased Employment Support – More help will be available to assist disabled people in finding and staying in work, with personalised guidance and access to job opportunities.
• Reforming the Benefits System – Changes will be made to the way benefits are assessed to ensure people receive the right support while also encouraging those who are able to work to do so.
• Investment in Health and Disability Services – Additional funding will be directed towards health and employment services to bridge the gap between welfare and work.

What Does This Mean for Disabled People?

These changes aim to make it easier for disabled people to access the support they need, whether that is financial help or assistance in finding a job that suits their abilities.

There are also concerns that some people may be pressured into work before they are ready, or that they could lose financial support too soon, leading to financial hardship.

If you are currently receiving benefits or have concerns about how these changes might impact you, it is important to stay informed and seek advice from support organisations.

To help navigate these changes we have listed below organisations where individuals can seek guidance.

Citizens Advice – Offers free, confidential advice on benefits, employment rights, and financial support.

Scope – Provides support for disabled people, including advice on employment and benefits.

Disability Rights UK – Offers detailed information on disability benefits and welfare changes.

Turn2us – Helps individuals check their benefit entitlements and provides grants for those in financial hardship.

Where to Find Updates on the Reforms

To stay informed about how these welfare reforms will be rolled out and what they mean for individuals receiving benefits, visit the following sources:

UK Government’s Website  – The latest announcements, policy changes, and official guidance on welfare benefits.

Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) – Updates on benefit assessments, new employment support initiatives, and eligibility changes.

Local Council Websites – Many councils provide information on local employment and welfare support schemes.