Labour Faces Backlash Over Proposed Cuts to Disability Benefits

The government plans to overhaul the welfare system, targeting Personal Independence Payments, but internal divisions and public criticism grow.

Labour's proposed welfare reforms aim to save £5-6 billion by tightening eligibility for Personal Independence Payments (PIP) and freezing inflation-linked increases.
Over one million people, including those with mental health conditions, could lose benefits under stricter criteria that focus on the most severely disabled.
Labour MPs and campaigners have criticized the proposals, warning they could alienate core voters and disproportionately impact low-income constituencies.
Ministers are considering concessions, such as a 'right to try' guarantee for disabled individuals seeking work, to address internal party dissent.
The reforms come as the cost of disability benefits has surged post-pandemic, with PIP expenditures projected to rise by £18 billion over the next five years.