On Tuesday, the Government published its Green Paper entitled “Pathways to Work” which proposed changes to the welfare system.
These included specific changes to Personal Independence Payments or PIP which in their current form, I cannot support. I also have concerns around the stopping of the health top up of Universal Credit for those aged 16-22. I will be speaking to Ministers and colleagues in the coming weeks. I have had many representations from constituents and charities, and they will be informing those meetings. People are understandably worried about the future as this could affect thousands of people in the Wrexham area.
I would urge people to give their feedback. A Green Paper is a consultation and if people can respond, this is the opportunity to do it. These changes are proposals at this stage, and nothing is happening immediately.
I accept that we need to reform our welfare system so that it works for 21st Century Britain. For too long the system has not been working for many people, trapping some in it. The Green Paper does contain some positive changes: the ‘Right to Try’ which will allow people to try work and return to their previous benefits without reassessment if it doesn’t work out and ‘Pathways to Work’ are both to be welcomed. I was also pleased to see the Unemployment Insurance to protect people with a higher rate of benefit if they fall out of work.
The consultation period runs until 30th June. Please make sure your voice is heard.
How to respond
There is an online form here.
Or you can email:
Or write to:
Disability and Health Support Directorate
Department for Work and Pensions
Level 2
Caxton House
Tothill Street
London
SW1H 9NA
