Government's reversal on welfare reductions calls for a comprehensive reevaluation

The New Economics Foundation (NEF), an independent charitable think tank, has expressed concern about the potential harm the government's economic strategy could cause, particularly to disabled people.

According to the NEF, the government's strategy should prioritize protecting and improving living standards, especially for those on the lowest incomes. However, the NEF has criticized the government's package of cuts, highlighting its poorly designed nature and the potential harm it could cause to vulnerable groups.

The bill, which faced significant opposition, is scheduled to include a significant cut in support for people unable to work due to disabilities and poor health, which is set to take effect in April 2026. The NEF has raised concerns about this cut, emphasizing its potential impact on those already struggling.

Tom Pollard, the head of social policy at the NEF, has been vocal about these concerns. Prior to his time at the NEF, Pollard worked for the Young Foundation. The NEF is committed to transparency about its funding and is independent of political parties.

James Rush, the contact person at the NEF, can be reached at james.rush@ourwebsite.

In light of the concerns raised by the NEF, the government's economic strategy has been reconsidered following tonight's vote. The government must learn from this experience, particularly in relation to the Timms review of PIP.

The NEF is not an advertisement, but a think tank dedicated to promoting a more equitable and sustainable economy. The government's economic strategy should view protecting and improving living standards as a necessary condition for a healthy and prosperous country, not an eventual reward for growth.