UK public back disability benefit spending

The UK public opposes cutting spending on benefits for disabled people - and this view crosses political lines.

According to the latest British Social Attitudes survey, just 7% of people think spending on disability benefits should be reduced.

By contrast, almost half (49%) believe spending should increase, even if it leads to higher taxes.

Support for disability benefits transcends political divides

Dr Robert de Vries, co-author of the report, pointed out that there has been “growing political divisions on welfare” in the UK.

So it’s notable that voters of different persuasions back giving disabled people the support they need. 

For example, four in ten (40%) right-leaning voters are in favour of more spending on benefits for disabled people who cannot work.

Meanwhile, just one in ten (10%) said they’d rather see less spending. 

Figures also showed that even among people who are against higher welfare spending for the poor, only 11% support spending less on disabled people.

“Support for disability benefits remains remarkably strong,” said Dr de Vries.

“Very few people favour cuts, disabled people are seen as among the most deserving recipients of support, and proposals to reduce disability benefits appear politically risky across the political spectrum."

Government reviewing disability benefits

The findings come as the government looks into overhauling the personal independence payment (PIP) system.

PIP is a benefit that helps people with long-term health conditions or disabilities cover extra living costs. 

However, the government has acknowledged that many people find the assessment and decision-making processes “stressful” and “dehumanising”, so it wants to improve the system where possible.

The review is expected to conclude this autumn and no current PIP recipients will be affected during this period. 

Any new rules that are introduced will only apply to new claims from November 2026.

Find out what benefits you can claim

If you’re struggling to make ends meet and not sure what help you’re entitled to, we can help.

You can either give us a ring and we’ll check for you, or you can use our free benefits calculator to see what support you could get.

Don’t assume you won’t qualify. 

Even if you’re in work, you own your home or have some savings, you could still be entitled to some help.