A report to Parliament has revealed the harsh reality disabled people face with the DWP – so let’s consider these trials in the week the government intends to unveil new attacks on benefit claimants, and ask why these powerful people are attacking the most vulnerable in society.

It also gives This Site a chance to highlight the work of Charlotte Hughes of The Poor Side of Life, who did all the work here. I’m just passing it on. She writes:

The report criticizes the DWP for its inadequate service, leaving many disability benefit claimants struggling to make ends meet.

Despite all of the talk about benefit fraud, underpayments have surged with a staggering £4 billion shortfall in 2023-24.

A mere 50% of new health-related Personal Independence Payment (PIP) claims are processed on time, compared to an impressive 96% for state pensions.

Similarly, those applying for Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) face average waiting times of 30 minutes to speak with a representative whilst in sharp contrast to the two-minute wait for Universal Credit claimants.

Disabled claimants often find their urgent calls for assistance unanswered, making it difficult to report changes that could impact benefit levels.

This lack of responsiveness perpetuates underpayments, creating a desperate cycle of financial hardship.

Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, chair of the committee likened the situation to leaving citizens in the lurch just when they need help the most.

She goes on to state:

With over 4.2 million individuals reliant on disability benefits, reform has become critical.

However disabled people and campaigners are expressing their deep, well rooted concerns that the current labour government is looking to decrease payments and pressurise disabled and ill claimants into work despite their inability to do so.

Also noted is the governments use of the words ‘benefit cheats’ ‘benefit fraud’ and ‘Disabled people must work’.

Disabled individuals often describe the benefits system as an ordeal that actively worsens their conditions.

As discussions about the reforms unfold, the pressing need for the DWP to better understand and respond to the needs of disabled citizens remains clear.

This Writer fears that nobody at the DWP feels any pressing need at all, with regard to disabled people. Just remember how keen they are – or not – to answer the phone.

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