On 18 March, the government proposed changes to the rules for claiming Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and the points needed to be awarded the benefit. These changes will mean that fewer people will get PIP, and thousands could be pushed into poverty. In the spring statement a little later in the month, it was also proposed that the health element of Universal Credit (which you get because sickness and disability prevents you from working) will be halved to £50 a week in 2026/27 and frozen at this amount until 2029/30. For those already claiming this UC health element they will have their money frozen at £97 a week until 2029/30. The changes involving PIP and UC represent a £4.8billion cut back for those who need the support most. The changes have been widely publicised and widely criticised by many.

If you disagree with the cuts, we are urging you to make your feelings known to your local MP via email.

You may think that doing this is worthless and that you will never make a difference, but the role of an MP, your local MP, is to represent the interests of all the people in your constituency in the House of Commons in London.

The more MPs hear from constituents about the benefit cuts, the more likely they are to stand up in parliament and oppose the government’s plans.

You can find out who your MP is HERE. This page will direct you to their contact details will provide you with an email address.

When you carry out this search using your postcode, you will find an email for your local MP.

Here are some tips for contacting your MP and some guidance on what you should say.

– MPs are extremely busy, so you may not hear back straight away. Be patient and persistent. If you do not hear from them, email or phone their office again.

– Try not to be daunted by who you’re talking to. MPs genuinely want to hear from you.

– Share your experience or the experiences of those close to you so your MP understands why this issue is important to you.

– Be clear and straight to the point. As this is such a huge talking point, your MP will know all of the background information on the proposed cuts. You do not need to outline the points.

– Be polite; MPs are real people who have been elected to do a job.

Here is a template email that you could choose to use regarding the proposed cuts. 

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, Postcode]

[Email Address]

[Date]

Hello,

I am writing to you as a concerned constituent regarding the proposed cuts to disability benefits. As you will be aware, there are plans to reduce funding for vital disability-related benefits, which will directly affect thousands of disabled people across the country.

I strongly oppose these cuts, as they will only serve to increase hardship and vulnerability among disabled individuals and their families. Disability benefits are crucial for ensuring that those who are already facing significant challenges can live with dignity and independence. These cuts will exacerbate existing inequalities, and could lead to even more people being pushed into poverty.

[ Insert personal experience, if you wish]

As my elected representative, I urge you to oppose these cuts and to raise your concerns within Parliament. Disabled people should not bear the brunt of austerity measures that disproportionately affect the most vulnerable members of our society.

I look forward to hearing from you regarding your stance on this issue and hope you will stand with your constituents in opposing these cuts.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Name]