The Department for Work and Pensions has proposed new reforms that could reduce weekly payments for young disabled adults under 22. The plan involves removing the Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity (LCWRA) element, which currently provides higher Universal Credit support to claimants unable to work due to health conditions.
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Financial Impact on Young Disabled Adults
If implemented, the reform would significantly reduce the income of young claimants. Those currently receiving £170 per week could see this fall to £73, representing a weekly loss of £97. Campaigners warn that this change could deepen financial hardship for around 110,000 disabled young adults who rely on this support to cover essentials like rent, food, and transport.
| Category | Current Weekly Support | Proposed Weekly Support | Weekly Loss |
|---|---|---|---|
| Disabled claimant under 22 (with LCWRA) | £170 | £73 | £97 |
The proposal is expected to hit young people with chronic illnesses or disabilities the hardest, particularly those unable to pursue education or full-time employment.
Groups Most Affected by the Changes
The DWP states that the reform targets young individuals classified as “Not in Education, Employment, or Training.” However, data shows that most in this category will not be affected, as the LCWRA component applies to a smaller group. The greatest impact will be on:
- Young adults with severe or long-term health conditions
- Students over 19 in non-advanced education receiving adult UC
- Part-time disabled workers relying on Universal Credit to supplement low wages
These individuals often face higher living costs and limited job opportunities, making them more vulnerable to income reductions.
Effects on Low-Income Families
Families may also feel the financial strain when their dependent transitions to an independent Universal Credit claim. Under current rules, household income already decreases slightly at this stage. The proposed reform could make the drop much sharper, removing nearly £100 weekly.
| Situation | Household Income Change |
|---|---|
| Transition at age 19 under current rules | Loss of £29.25 per week |
| Transition under proposed reform | Loss of nearly £100 per week |
The combined effect of reduced support and rising living costs may push more households closer to poverty thresholds.
Campaigners’ Response to the Proposal
Disability Rights UK and several other advocacy groups have publicly criticised the reforms. They argue the policy punishes those least able to work and fails to address the structural barriers that prevent disabled youth from entering the workforce. Charities such as Contact and Special Needs Jungle have urged lawmakers to reconsider the proposal, describing it as harmful and counterproductive.
Government’s Rationale for the Reform
The government maintains that the changes are intended to promote fairness and reduce long-term benefit dependency. Ministers argue that higher benefits for younger claimants discourage employment and that the reform will motivate more young adults to seek work. Critics, however, believe the measure will instead worsen mental health outcomes, deepen inequality, and create greater pressure on social support systems.
Wider Implications for Disability Policy
This proposal has reignited debate over how welfare reforms should balance cost-saving with compassion. Experts suggest that without additional employment programs and mental health support, these cuts may further isolate disabled young people from opportunities and economic stability.
FAQ
- What is the main change proposed by the DWP?
The reform removes the LCWRA element for claimants under 22, reducing their Universal Credit support. - How much income will young disabled adults lose?
Claimants could lose around £97 per week, dropping from £170 to £73. - Who will be most affected?
Young people with disabilities or long-term illnesses who cannot work full-time will be most affected. - What reasons does the government give for the change?
The government argues the reform will encourage employment and reduce benefit dependency among young people. - How have campaigners responded?
Disability rights organisations have strongly opposed the proposal, warning that it will increase poverty and hardship among vulnerable groups.
