Benefit cuts 'will push families of disabled children into debt'

A joint report by the Children’s Society, Disability Rights UK and Citizens Advice Bureau, found that support for some families will be cut in half under Universal Credit – to £28 a week.

Meanwhile disabled lone parents will be affected by the loss of the severe disability premium, which was traditionally used to top up income support payments, potentially increasing burdens on young carers.

And the removal of financial support for disabled people who face extra costs in work could prevent them being able to take up employment, with a potential knock-on effect on children in the family.

The inquiry found that of the estimated 100,000 families with a disabled child who are set to receive less under Universal Credit, two thirds said they would have to cut back on food spending, and half said it would get them into more debt. One in ten said they may find it difficult to afford their home.