On Tuesday (18.03.25), the Rt Hon Liz Kendall MP, Secretary of State for Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) announced the governments plans for welfare reform.
Over 120+ organisations and charities are concerned that these changes, especially the decision to change the eligibility criteria for PIP and make it even more difficult to obtain, will have a devastating affect on disabled people and the communities they represent, pushing many into financial hardship.
We know from a Scope report (2024) that life costs more for disabled people. Many people who have ME/CFS and Long Covid, which can both be a disabling and very debilitating condition already live in poverty as a result of these extra costs. Therefore the impact of disability benefits cuts would be disastrous.
The ME Association is actively challenging the government’s proposed welfare reforms and has launched a major project to defend the rights of people with ME and Long Covid.
We will shortly be publishing a formal position statement, meeting directly with key policymakers including the Minister for Disabled People, and launching a national survey to gather vital evidence from our community.
This work is a priority for the charity, and we’re committed to ensuring the specific needs and experiences of people with ME and Long Covid are clearly represented and heard.
Write to your MP
Ella Smith, Welfare Benefits Adviser to the ME Association has kindly updated the MP template letter – 3rd July 2025
Further Information
- MP Liz Kendall, Secretary of State for Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) Speech | 18th March 2025
- The ME Association: The MEA signs Carers UK open letter regarding Carers Allowance Overpayments | 20th March 2025
- The ME Association: Key Announcements: MP Liz Kendall, Secretary of State for DWP confirms the government plans on welfare reform | 19th March 2025
- The ME Association: MEA writes to the Rt Hon Liz Kendall, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions | 18th March 2025