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Disabled People in Greater Manchester Feel 'Discarded' Due to Welfare Cuts

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  //politics-government.news-articles.net/content/ .. nchester-feel-discarded-due-to-welfare-cuts.html
  Published in Politics and Government on Tuesday, December 30th 2025 at 1:56 GMT by Manchester Evening News

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"Discarded and Forgotten": The Growing Crisis of Disabled People Feeling Shut Out by Welfare Reforms and Cuts in Greater Manchester

A deeply concerning picture of isolation, financial hardship, and systemic failure is emerging in Greater Manchester, as highlighted by a recent investigation published by the Manchester Evening News (MEN). The article, “These people feel discarded, forgotten,” details the experiences of disabled individuals who feel increasingly abandoned by welfare reforms, cuts to vital support services, and a lack of accessible opportunities. It paints a stark portrait of a community struggling with mental health issues, poverty, and a profound sense of being let down by institutions meant to protect them.

The core of the MEN’s report focuses on the experiences of individuals involved with the Manchester Disabled People Against Cuts (MDPAC) group. MDPAC has been vocal for years about the detrimental effects of austerity measures and welfare reforms on disabled people, particularly those with complex needs. The article showcases several personal stories that illustrate the devastating consequences of these policies.

One recurring theme is the impact of Universal Credit. While intended to simplify the benefits system, it has proven incredibly difficult for many disabled individuals to navigate. The MEN highlights cases where claimants have faced delays in payments, sanctions due to missed appointments (often exacerbated by health conditions), and a general lack of understanding from Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) staff regarding their specific needs. The complexity of the system, coupled with often inadequate support, leaves many feeling overwhelmed and trapped in cycles of debt. As reported by Disability Rights UK, Universal Credit’s design inherently disadvantages those with fluctuating incomes or needing frequent adjustments – a common reality for people with disabilities.

Beyond Universal Credit, the article emphasizes the erosion of crucial local authority services. Cuts to social care budgets have resulted in reduced access to home support, respite care, and day centres. These services are not luxuries; they’re often essential for disabled individuals to maintain independence, manage their conditions, and avoid complete isolation. The loss of these supports frequently leads to a rapid deterioration in mental health and an increased reliance on emergency services – ultimately costing the system more in the long run. The article references a 2019 report by the National Audit Office which confirmed that local authority funding for adult social care has been significantly reduced, impacting the quality and availability of support.

The impact extends beyond financial hardship and practical assistance. Many individuals interviewed express feelings of profound loneliness and isolation. Reduced access to community activities, transport difficulties (often due to cuts in accessible bus routes), and a lack of understanding from employers contribute to this sense of exclusion. The article highlights the mental health toll – anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation are prevalent among those struggling with these challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic only exacerbated these issues, further isolating vulnerable individuals and disrupting already fragile support networks.

Furthermore, the MEN’s investigation points to a broader issue: a lack of accessible employment opportunities. While government initiatives often promote supported employment schemes, many disabled people face significant barriers to finding and retaining jobs. These include inaccessible workplaces, discriminatory attitudes from employers, and a lack of appropriate training and support. The article references research showing that the disability employment gap remains stubbornly high, with significantly fewer disabled people in work compared to their non-disabled counterparts.

MDPAC’s campaign isn't just about individual hardship; it's about challenging the systemic failures that perpetuate these problems. They argue for a more compassionate and responsive welfare system, increased investment in social care, and a commitment to creating truly inclusive communities. They are demanding greater accountability from government agencies and local authorities, pushing for policies that prioritize the needs of disabled people rather than simply cutting costs.

The article concludes with a sense of urgency, emphasizing that these individuals feel "discarded" and "forgotten." Their stories serve as a powerful indictment of current social policies and highlight the urgent need for change. The MEN’s investigation isn't just about reporting on individual struggles; it's about amplifying their voices and demanding action from those in power to ensure that disabled people in Greater Manchester – and across the UK – are treated with dignity, respect, and receive the support they deserve. The ongoing campaign by MDPAC underscores the persistent need for advocacy and a fundamental re-evaluation of how society supports its most vulnerable members.

To read more about the issues raised:

• [ Manchester Disabled People Against Cuts (MDPAC) ]
• [ Disability Rights UK - Universal Credit ]
• [ National Audit Office Report on Adult Social Care Funding ]