St Neots and Mid Cambridgeshire MP Ian Sollom has called on the Government to reverse its proposed cuts to disability and carer benefits, warning they could push thousands into poverty.
Backing a Liberal Democrat amendment aimed at stopping the new Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) Bill, Mr Sollom said the planned reforms would have a devastating impact on vulnerable families across the area.
Figures released by the Liberal Democrats reveal that in the St Neots constituency, 1,900 people currently receive the enhanced level of PIP, with 10% scoring very low across all daily living activities. Meanwhile, 85% of those on the standard PIP level – around 1,400 residents – also scored poorly, suggesting widespread need for ongoing support.
Mr Sollom is holding his second welfare forum in the coming weeks to hear directly from residents affected by the changes. He highlighted Government analysis showing the cuts could force 250,000 more people – including 50,000 children – into poverty, with 150,000 unpaid carers set to lose their Carers Allowance.
“These are not numbers on a spreadsheet – these are real people in our community who rely on this support to live their lives,” said Mr Sollom.
