Changes to our welfare system

A current statement on the proposed changes to our welfare system.

I completely understand the concern, frustration, and anxiety the proposed changes to benefits have caused, and I am truly sorry for any distress this has caused. My goal, and the goal of the Labour Party, has never been to upset people, but to improve the system that so many rely on.

The current benefits system is far from perfect. For the past 14 years, it has been structured in ways that make it harder for people to access the support they truly need. The repeated freezes to Universal Credit, for example, have left too many struggling to get by. This is simply not acceptable, and this government is committed to fixing this broken system to help people thrive, not punish them.

The Green Paper released on March 18th marks the first step toward these reforms; introducing several positive changes, such as:

• An above-inflation rise of £755 for Universal Credit

• No reassessment for those with life-disabling disabilities

• £1 billion in funding to help people get back into work

• No introduction of PIP vouchers

  
  

These are significant steps forward, but I want to be clear: the process will take time. Nothing will change until November 2026, allowing us to get these reforms right. The 12-week consultation process is an opportunity for you to provide your feedback and concerns, which I will ensure are fed into the process.

After the Green Paper, there will be a White Paper with more details, followed by further consultations before the Bill is introduced to the House of Commons. Only after it has been approved by both the Commons and the House of Lords and receives Royal Assent will it become law.

I am committed to ensuring these changes are fair and tailored to people’s specific needs. The Bill will continue to evolve over the next year, and I want your voice to be part of that process. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me or my team with any questions, concerns, or ideas—we are here to support you, and your input is vital in making sure the Bill works for everyone.

My email: jayne.kirkham.mp@parliament.uk