Labour's proposed overhaul of disability benefits has not yet been published but is expected before Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ Spring Forecast in March, though an exact date remains unconfirmed. Reports suggest the government is considering significant changes to the Work Capability Assessment (WCA), which determines an individual’s ability to work and their eligibility for Universal Credit or Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).

A similar reform was previously proposed under the former Tory government. If implemented, over 450,000 current claimants deemed unable to work may be required to seek employment. Tightening the criteria for the “limited capability for work and work-related activity (LCWRA)” category could result in disabled individuals losing £417 per month—amounting to around £5,000 annually.

Additionally, the government is reportedly considering revising the eligibility criteria for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and introducing more frequent assessments. Labour has confirmed its commitment to the same level of spending cuts as the previous Tory administration, amounting to £5.4 billion by 2029-30.

The Disabled Peoples Organisation (DPO) Forum has called on the DWP to withdraw these planned cuts and work collaboratively with disabled people to improve the benefits system. It also urged the release of responses from the previous PIP Green Paper consultation and clarification on whether the WCA proposals will be included in the upcoming Green Paper. The forum emphasized that these consultations are essential in shaping policies that reflect the needs and experiences of disabled individuals.

In its letter, the forum also referenced a report by Pro Bono Economics, More than Money: The Lifelong Wellbeing Impact of Disability Benefits, which stresses the importance of maintaining access to disability benefits. The report warned that failing to do so could worsen public health issues and have serious economic consequences.