It’s been a hectic few months at Fightback, and we thought now would be a good time to share an update. Alongside our day-to-day mission of helping people across the UK with welfare benefits advice and disability support, we’ve been working hard on a number of projects and community initiatives.

Our reach as a community interest company continues to grow, which has meant our phones and inboxes have been busier than ever. But despite the pressure, our priority remains clear: to provide trusted, compassionate support to everyone who needs help navigating the welfare benefits system.

Here’s what we’ve been up to recently:

Meeting with James Frith MP – Disability Benefits Concerns

We recently met with our local MP, James Frith, to raise urgent concerns about the proposed cuts to disability benefits.

Topics we discussed included:

• the new 4-point rule for PIP (Personal Independence Payment),
• planned changes to assessments,
• the fundamental flaws in the proposals for cuts, and
• our experience of the consultation process, which we believe to be wholly unsuitable.

We also highlighted how the consultation appears to give disproportionate weight to a small “elite 12,” while overlooking the lived experiences of grassroots organisations and the very people most affected.

We hope our conversation made an impact and opened the door to further discussion on protecting disability benefits.

Free Drop-In Sessions – Welfare Benefits Advice in Tottington

In September we held another of our free drop-in sessions, which take place on the first Wednesday of every month at our Tottington offices.

These sessions are open to anyone who needs welfare benefits support, including help with:

• Blue Badge applications,
• ESA to Universal Credit migration,
• gathering medical evidence for claims, and more.

Our most recent event welcomed around 23 visitors, all of whom received personalised, free support.

No appointment is necessary to attend — though we do ask that you let us know in advance if possible.

Community Talk with Breathe Easy in Whitefield

We were delighted to meet with the Breathe Easy group in Whitefield, where Michelle gave a talk on welfare benefits and answered members’ questions.

Breathe Easy is a support group run by Asthma + Lung UK, offering advice and community to people with lung conditions. They meet on the last Thursday of each month at the Community Room in Whitefield.

Groups like these exist right across the UK — you can find your local Breathe Easy group on their website: asthmaandlung.org.uk.

If you’re part of a community group that could benefit from a talk on welfare benefits support, please do get in touch.

Podcasts, Media and Interviews

With welfare benefits frequently in the news, Fightback has been invited to feature on several podcasts, radio shows, and digital and print media outlets.

Our latest podcast appearance, recorded in September, is due for release soon. To see all of our features, head to the In The Media section of our website (you’ll find it on our homepage).

Media outlets also regularly revisit and replay our interviews when expert commentary is needed on welfare benefits, meaning our voice continues to represent grassroots experiences.

Looking Back at Our National Diversity Awards Nomination

This month, Facebook reminded us of a proud moment in Fightback’s history — our nomination for the National Diversity Awards, seven years ago.

Although we didn’t win, being recognised alongside so many inspiring community groups was a real honour. The NDAs are especially meaningful as they are voted for by the public, and we remain proud of this achievement.

Stay Connected with Fightback

To keep up to date with:

• the latest welfare benefits news,
• changes to the UK disability benefits system, and
• updates from the Fightback team and community,

Please follow us on Facebook and check the News section of our website regularly.

As always, thank you for your continued support. Together, we’ll keep fighting for fair welfare benefits and stronger support for those who need it most.