Care Home Residents Win Mobility Reprieve

The UK Government has done a U-turn on a controversial benefit cut.

In a move welcomed by the NI Social Development Minister, Nelson McCausland, the Government is to scrap a controversial proposal for the reform of Disability Living Allowance (DLA).

On Thursday, the Minister for Disabled People, Maria Miller revoked the decision to remove the mobility element of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), which will soon replace DLA, from those people living in residential care homes.

DUP Minister McCausland said: "I welcome the announcement by Minister Miller.

"The proposal to remove the mobility component from those living in residential care homes and who receive DLA was wrong. I welcome the fact that the Minister has listened to the public's concerns on this issue and acted appropriately.

"Just last month Minister Miller visited my Department and we spoke at length on many issues, included the introduction of Personal Independence Payment which will replace DLA for all working age customers.

"Whilst it is important to revamp the current welfare system, which is flawed and complex, it is also important to ensure that the most vulnerable people in our society are closely protected," he said.

The Minister added: "This move is a welcome step in ensuring that those most in need in Northern Ireland are supported, and that they can continue to have the freedom to enjoy as independent a life as possible."

In the Spending Review 2010 it was announced that, from October 2012, the Disability Living Allowance mobility component would be withdrawn from people in residential care homes after 28 days.

However, the Government will now table an amendment to the Welfare Reform Bill for consideration at Lords Report stage to remove the provision, which allows for withdrawal of the mobility component of Personal Independence Payment from residential care home residents.

Minister Miller said that though the issue of mobility needs for people in residential care homes presents a complex and varied picture, there is insufficient evidence of overlaps in funding provision to justify the withdrawal of the mobility component.

(BMcC/GK)