News

Action for M.E. responds to 2017 budget

March 09, 2017

As a member of the Disability Benefits Consortium, Action for M.E. believes that yesterday’s budget by Chancellor Phillip Hammond was a missed opportunity to put a stop to damaging cuts to ESA and PIP, and reassure disabled people and those with long-term conditions, including M.E., that they will receive a fair deal if they need additional support in future.

Action for M.E. will continue to engage with parliamentarians and policy-makers to demonstrate the impact of M.E., and the need for appropriate services and support for those living with the condition.

The Chancellor Phillip Hammond announced extra funding of £2 billion for social care over the next three years, with £1 billion to be made available for 2017-2018.

Hammond acknowledged the social care system was “clearly under pressure”, and stated that this extra funding would allow councils to “act now to commission new care packages.”

The government will consider long-term options later this year through a consultation on social care funding.

There were no announcements regarding the upcoming changes in Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) and Personal Independence Payment (PIP). New ESA claimants who are placed in the Work-Related Activity Group from 3 April 2017 will receive almost £30 less per week. Additionally, an adjustment to the PIP activity descriptors will limit the number of points available to some claimants.