Report

More than money

Think tank: Pro Bono Economics

Author(s): Karol Rodriguez Cabrera

January 27, 2025

This report from UK think tank Pro Bono Economics urges the government to prioritise improving access to disability benefits for those whose quality of life depends on this support.

Today, the state of public finances and the government’s determination to control public spending might, at first glance, seem to suggest that the government should look to curb disability benefit claims, which are expected to continue to rise in the near future.

However, results from this report suggest the government should not rush to any decision to reduce claims by restricting PIP/DLA eligibility or introducing further barriers to application. According to our findings, such actions would most likely significantly harm the quality of life of many disabled people in the UK.

Instead, our findings suggest that improving access to disability benefits could enhance the lives of those who need the support but face barriers to get it. This builds on existing evidence that underscores the need for a review of the claiming process. Disabled people have reported that the claiming process is becoming increasingly complex and burdensome, requiring extensive evidence of their disability and causing significant stress. Simplifying this process could make a substantial difference in the lives of those who need support.

This report urges the government to prioritise improving access to disability benefits for those whose quality of life depends on this support. Failure to do so could exacerbate public health issues and have severe economic consequences. Fortunately, the state is not alone in this endeavour. The charity sector is already actively supporting disabled individuals to navigate the benefit system. Therefore, fostering collaboration and partnerships with the charity sector is more critical than ever.