Summary
The UK government is changing the disability benefits under Universal Credit, reducing the monthly "health top-up" payment for new applicants from £429.80 to £217.26. This change aims to save £1 billion by the fiscal year 2030/31. Some families are worried that this could lead to financial difficulties.
Key Facts
- The UK government is changing the rules for the health top-up under Universal Credit.
- New applicants for the health top-up will get £217.26 a month, half of what current claimants receive.
- The changes took effect from April 6.
- The government expects to save £1 billion by reducing these payments.
- Some families, like Erika Lye's, are concerned about the financial impact.
- Exceptions to the reduced payments include those nearing end of life or meeting Severe Conditions Criteria.
- In 2019/2020, 1.9 million people received this benefit, predicted to rise to three million by 2029/30.
