'It's not what people voted for': Wiltshire-based charity slams disability cuts
The Government is aiming to save ÂŁ5bn over five years
A Wiltshire-based anti-poverty charity has slammed the Government for it's decision to reduce disability payments, saying it goes against pre-election manifesto pledges.
Work and Pensions secretary Liz Kendall announced changes to the welfare system which will see the main eligibility requirements for disability benefits narrowed.
It's in an effort to save ÂŁ5 billion by 2030.
Helen Barnard, director of policy at Salisbury-based charity, Trussell, said the cuts are 'deeply concerning' and that "this isn't what people voted for".
She said: "People at food banks have told us they are terrified of how they might survive. We welcome the positive proposals from the Department for Work and Pensions to boost the basic rate to Universal Credit and invest in employment support. However, we fear these steps will be undermined by a Treasury drive to make short-term savings.
“Huge cuts risk pushing more disabled people to the doors of food banks, and will have devastating consequences for us all. The UK government was elected on manifesto pledges to end the need for emergency food parcels. This isn’t what people voted for.
“Disabled people are already three times more likely to face hunger, and three quarters of people at food banks are disabled or live with someone who is. Our social security system should be rooted in justice and compassion, able to be there for us all, especially when we need it most."
Ms Barnard said it's not a 'done deal' yet, as the changes don't come in for another year. She said there is still time for the Chancellor and the Prime Minister to "rethink and make good" on promises to restore trust and equality in the social security system.