'Build a fair social security system with dignity for all'
The UK Government's process of bringing forward proposals for cuts to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and health-based Universal Credit for disabled claimants has been marked by chaos.
This is decision making which has been irresponsible.
These controversial changes to social security will see financial support for disabled people slashed in an effort to save £5 billion from the UK Government's welfare bill.
The voices of disabled people have not been front and centre of the debate about how to build a better social security system.
The changes represent a serious threat to disabled people's quality of life, dignity, and equality.
Disabled people currently receiving PIP and Universal Credit continue under the current rules, with all new claimants facing harsh eligibility assessments which will see people go without the crucial support they need.
Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister, might have done a partial U-turn on these plans for welfare benefits but instead of creating a fair welfare system for all, he has created a two-tier benefits system.
New claimants will still be subjected to the new, harsher assessment regime, and will not receive the benefits they need and deserve.
Scottish Greens are astonished that a UK Labour government would ever even contemplate such cruel and inhumane cuts at all.
We are very disappointed that this cut in support for people who are unable to work due to disabilities and poor health after April 2026 will still go ahead.
It is vital that we keep up the pressure to ensure that new claimants get what they need, because these reforms will hurt thousands of disabled people around the country for years to come.
There is a lack of real evidence that a lower income will help disabled people to return to work.
Cutting benefits will push more people into poverty.
This could put further strain on local services such as the NHS and social care.
Scottish Greens will keep fighting against these dangerous austerity measures from Labour and make the case for Scotland to build a fair social security system that treats everyone with dignity and respect.
We have to recognise the power of disabled people's campaigning, and the importance of campaigning to deliver justice for disabled people continuing.
The determination of disabled people and other activists is vital in the struggle to stop welfare cuts.
We need to make sure that both the Scottish Government and the UK Government deliver security, and human rights for disabled people.
This requires investing in our communities including local council services and not cutting the support disabled people rely on.
We can work with disabled people's organisations who are committed to fighting poverty, and supporting and championing the rights of disabled people, their families, and carers.
It is possible to create a more compassionate welfare benefits system that supports the wellbeing of disabled people.
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