'Cruel' MP urges government to drop disability benefits cuts

BRISTOL Central MP Carla Denyer and local disability campaigners have warned that proposed cuts to benefits will "devastate" lives.

- Lewis CLARKE

Ms Denyer met recently disabled constituents and campaigners to hear first-hand how the planned changes would affect their lives. One participant said the UK is "going backwards in terms of disability equality," while others accused the Government of "devaluing" disabled people. Some shared that they had experienced a rise in discriminatory language online since the plans were announced.

The proposed cuts to support for disabled people, first outlined in March, have faced widespread criticism. Campaigners argue that the changes including to Personal Independence Payments (PIP) will not only harm individuals financially but also increase social isolation and discourage employment.

Ms Denyer said: "These cruel and unnecessary cuts to vital support will devastate disabled people's lives.