The government has agreed to protect existing disability benefit claimants from its proposed reforms. That’s a start — but it’s nowhere near enough.
Ella Smith, Welfare Rights Consultant, The ME Association
What's the issue?
If you already receive PIP or the Universal Credit health top-up, the changes won’t hit you yet. But if your condition improves and you come off benefits — or if you need to make a claim in future — you’ll face the new, stricter rules.
For people with fluctuating conditions like ME/CFS, this is a real risk. Many cycle in and out of entitlement due to symptom variation. These concessions won’t protect them for long.
This creates a two-tier system:
- Protected “legacy” claimants
- Everyone else forced through harsher tests
That’s not fairness — it’s a postcode lottery in time.
What the rebels asked for — and didn’t get
Labour MPs pushed for:
- A full impact assessment before any changes
- Protection for future disabled claimants
- A clear guarantee that no one would be worse off
None of that has been delivered. The government has offered partial protection for some — and nothing for the rest.
What you can do now
MPs are being asked to vote through these reforms on the false belief that the concessions fix the problem. They don’t.
- Email your MP today using our updated template letter.
- Tell them not to accept half-measures.
- Ask them to stand by the amendment they supported — and reject this two-tier system.
This fight isn’t over
People with ME/CFS — and other fluctuating conditions — are being left behind. These changes will push thousands into poverty, delay support, and deepen health inequalities.
Help us make sure your MP knows:
The concessions aren’t enough. We need proper protection for all disabled people — now and in future.
Ella Smith
Welfare Rights Consultant,
The ME Association
Media coverage
- The Guardian: Starmer offers ‘massive concessions’ on welfare bill to Labour rebels | June 27, 2025
- Sky News: Government makes concessions to Labour rebels over welfare reforms | June 27, 2025
- LBC: Starmer gives in to Labour rebels on welfare reforms in benefits climbdown | June 27, 2025
- Financial Times: How Starmer averted ‘civil war’ with Labour MPs after diluting welfare cuts | June 27, 2025
- The Guardian: Opinion: The Labour welfare rebels are right. This hounding of disabled people will damage the party for years to come | June 27, 2025