Statement on UK Government reform to welfare and benefits

Today (Tuesday 18 March) the UK Government has announced reforms to the welfare benefits system, including changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – one of the disability benefits that young people with cancer can be entitled to and rely on to support with the additional costs of living with cancer.

In response to today’s announcement, Helen Gravestock, Director of Policy at Young Lives vs Cancer said:  

“When a young person is diagnosed with cancer, they face immediate extra costs and rely on the financial support of disability benefits throughout treatment. Today was an opportunity to truly transform the welfare benefits system so it works for children and young people with cancer and their families. We’re concerned UK Government’s reforms could make it even more difficult for young people with cancer to access the crucial financial support they need.  

“The changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) eligibility thresholds may leave some young people with cancer unable to claim PIP in full, or have their entitlement removed when these reforms come into effect.  

“Some welcomed moves such as streamlining processes through digitisation and improving use of medical evidence have been overshadowed by the risk that vulnerable young people with serious, long-term conditions like cancer may be left without support they need and deserve. 

“Young Lives vs Cancer will take time to understand in more detail how the reforms may impact the young people and families that we support, and continue to amplify their voices and experiences in shaping what comes next.  

“Through the review of the PIP assessment also announced today, young people with cancer need the UK Government to listen and make sure they deliver a system which works for everyone who needs it.   

“I want to reassure those we support that these changes are not expected immediately, and Young Lives vs Cancer will continue to provide support through our specialist social workers and Welfare Advice Service for everyone who needs it.” 

Amongst the reforms announced, UK Government have decided to introduce an additional requirement to score at least four points in one daily living activity to be eligible for the daily living part of PIP. On top of existing concerns about the suitability of the current assessment activities in reflecting the impacts of cancer on young people, which we hope will be addressed through the review of the PIP assessment announced alongside these reforms, an additional threshold may make it more difficult for young people with cancer to meet the PIP eligibility.

Young Lives vs Cancer will now be reviewing the detail of the reforms and understanding what these changes may mean for young cancer patients and their families, including those already in receipt of the benefits, and those who may claim in the future.  

Young Lives vs Cancer will respond to the Green Paper consultation to reflect the research, evidence and most importantly, the voices and direct experiences of young people with cancer and those that support them.  

If you need support with welfare benefits or the impacts of the costs of cancer, please get in touch for support.