On Wednesday 7th December, disabilities charity Scope hosted a meeting in Parliament for MPs and Peers to raise awareness on the impact of the cost-of-living crisis for disabled people.
Parliamentarians heard directly from those living with disabilities about the hard choices they are having to make this winter, as well as listening to Scope representatives about their various policy recommendations to help disabled people during the next few months.
The sad reality is that for many living with disabilities, ordinary life becomes more expensive. The Government has therefore increased public spending for the social care sector of up to £2.8 billion next year, as well as giving disabled people a second Disability Cost-of-Living Payment of £150 to help with the extra challenges they face.
Scope has launched a Disability Energy Support service offering advice and support to disabled people and their families. They help people deal with utility debt, gas safety, and benefits.
Information on Scope’s support can be found at: www.scope.org.uk/services . The Government’s support schemes can be accessed by searching ‘help for households’.
Fiona Bruce MP, who attended the meeting in Parliament, said, ‘The charity Scope is doing vital work to help those with disabilities. It is so important that disabled people and their families are supported, so they can access the food, medicine, equipment and support they need during this challenging time. The Government has committed extra funding to help those with disabilities, and support is available to those who need it.