Welfare concessions encouraging, but disabled workers need support guarantees, says UNISON

“Many disabled people rely on the social security system to be able to work. Removing essential support would make it harder for them to find and keep a job.

“The government is right to try and help more people into employment. The best way to do that is by breaking down the barriers preventing disabled people from working. And going after employers paying poverty wages.

“It’s encouraging the government has listened and responded to concerns raised by UNISON in public and behind the scenes.

“Disabled workers will be paying close attention to what ministers say next week. They need assurances the support that enables them to work is not taken away.

A recent UNISON survey found three quarters (75%) of those in receipt of the personal independence payment, which helps disabled people with extra living costs, say losing it would affect their ability to work. Three in five (60%) said they spent the payment on travelling to their workplace.

Notes to editors:
– UNISON is the UK’s largest union, with more than 1.3 million members providing public services in education, local government, the NHS, police service and energy. They are employed in the public, voluntary and private sectors.

Media contacts:
Fatima Ayad M: 07508 080383 E: f.ayad@unison.co.uk
Dan Ashley M: 07789 518992 M E: d.ashley@unison.co.uk