The benefit cuts risk further marginalising the most vulnerable

One of my favourite work activities is spending time with people we support, whether in our residential homes or at our children and family centres. I especially enjoyed a recent trip to one of our local supported living services, where I caught up with James, 43, at his home of more than two decades.

James reminded me of his love of plants and how much he enjoys being surrounded by beautiful flowers. His support workers signed him up to a vocational training in gardening, through a local charity, the Shaw Trust. Every Monday and Wednesday, James goes out into the community and learns new gardening and planting skills in the company of other students and staff, and he enjoys his time with his peers there. James was diagnosed with “brain damage” at just nine months old, and his sister told me how, despite training and family support, he will never have the capacity to take the bus independently or be able to count, recognise money or write. Although he has tried a number of jobs over the years, and enjoys being occupied, he has never been able to adapt to the rigours and routines of working life.

Living in a supporting living accommodation means James has an independent tenancy agreement and a home he rents using benefits he receives from his local authority, which also separately funds his care package, on account of his lifelong learning disability. None of this is linked to his ability to work, which will never change due to his condition and associated needs. Last week, the government published a green paper, confirming its plans to cut disability benefits. People such as James, who have significant disability, already face increased costs in their daily lives to perform everyday tasks the rest of society take for granted. The support they receive is made possible by the limited funding available, which, with Norwood’s input to meet its true cost, enables them to lead fulfilled lives. The government’s commitment to supporting more people with long-term sickness and disability into work is admirable and one we share, but these measures won’t improve James’ prospects of employment, and they add financial constraints that risk further marginalising the people we support and limiting their opportunities.

I hope the government’s renewed focus on inclusion will translate into support to empower those who are able into appropriate employment that allows them to make a meaningful contribution and enriches our society as a result.