My wife, a person with a disability that prevents her from working, was previously assessed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) as having a Limited Capability for Work and Work Based Activities. This assessment clearly acknowledges her genuine inability to work due to disability. However, earlier this year, the DWP discontinued my wife's Universal Credit because I am employed so my earnings are taken into account for my Wife. We were informed that she is now solely my financial responsibility and my financial dependent, causing our income to drop by over £700 per month, removing a large portion of my wife's independence and causing our family great financial hardship.

This situation is not unique to us but affects numerous families across the UK where one partner has a disability genuinely preventing them from working as PIP is not means based. The current policy undermines the independence of disabled individuals and places an undue burden on their partners or families. Whilst it is true that many people with disabilities do get PIP they would also get this on top of any earnings if they were working. This essentially tells individuals who are unable to work that they do not deserve extra help because they are genuinely unable to work through no fault of their own.

According to Scope UK, 19% of working-age adults in the UK have a disability. Many are unable to work due to their conditions yet are denied access to Universal Credit if they have a partner who works (Scope UK). This policy unfairly penalizes those who are already facing significant challenges due to their disabilities.

We call upon the DWP and relevant policymakers in government to revise this policy immediately. People with disabilities that prevent them from working should be entitled independently claim Universal Credit regardless of their relationship status or their partner's employment status.

Please sign this petition if you believe in fair treatment for all citizens regardless of ability or relationship status.