Welfare Reforms 2025

Shine is continuing to review what will change, and consider how we can best support you as the proposed welfare reforms come into effect.

The Government initially proposed huge changes to the benefit system in March 2025. However, after campaigns lead by disability charities and MPs, the proposed reforms have been revised. The proposed changes originally included: 

• A review of the PIP Assessment process. Stricter eligibility criteria for the daily living component of PIP but no changes to mobility. Originally saying any new claimants must score 4 in one area of the assessment.  
• Work Capacity Assessment to be scrapped.  
• Reduced Incapacity benefit top-up on Universal credit for those under 22.  
• Incapacity benefits under universal credit to be halved for new claimants. 
• But they wanted to create more incentives for disabled people to work. 

Shine consulted with our members, and with your feedback, put together a response to the government's initial consultation. You can read that response here.

As at September 2025...

There will now be no changes to PIP until the end of 2026, following a review led by Disabilities Minister Sir Stephen Timms and "co-produced" with disabled people. We do not yet know what recommendations it will make and whether those changes will be passed into law. 

However, changes for Universal Credit will go ahead. The Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity element (“LCWRA” or “health” element) of Universal Credit, for people who cannot work due to a health condition or disability, will be nearly halved for New Claimants from £97 a week to £50 a week from April 2026. Note: If you already receive this element, it will remain the same. These changes will affect members in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The situation is ongoing

As the reform proposals develop, Shine will:

• Continue to campaign against the reforms that are likely to affect our members
• Respond to Government consultations to represent your views
• Keep you updated on the changes and timelines, when available
• Answer your questions - please post in the comments and we will get back to you asap
• Produce guidance to help you navigate through the changes that might affect you
• Continue to offer support and guidance in benefits claims, re-assessments and appeals
• Educate the DWP and others about spina bifida and hydrocephalus

Please don't hesitate to contact us on 01733 555988 or email firstcontact@shinecharity.org.uk if you have any questions or need support with current benefit applications.

Each month we also run Financial Fitness sessions where you can come along, ask questions and get the advice you need. Check out our events page to see when the next session might be.

We're here if you need us!