THE recent reports regarding cuts to disability benefits highlight the problems faced by so many in our society. We have seen first-hand the atrocious level of anxiety caused to disabled people because of PIP and Motability. In the past year alone, around 50% of the advocacy cases we support have involved these issues.

People with muscular dystrophy have had their adapted vehicles taken back because of new, tougher criteria implemented by the government. Now, they are hearing that ministers are deliberately bypassing a court ruling that states they should provide extra support to severely disabled people with mobility issues or those who need help taking medication.

Living with muscular dystrophy or in fact any disability is challenging and expensive. Our research has found that two-thirds of those affected experience significant financial difficulty, and two-fifths struggle or fail to pay bills as a direct result of the cost their condition.

Instead of taking away or denying support to these individuals, ministers should be listening to the courts and providing them with the help that they are entitled to.

Nic Bungay

Director of Campaigns, Care and Information Muscular Dystrophy UK