UK cabinet ministers have discussed whether a proposed under-25 welfare approach could apply to older adults, potentially widening a debate over work and disability support, The Guardian reported Nov. 13.
The newspaper said Andy Burnham and other cabinet ministers discussed extending the approach to people over 25. The Guardian reported that the prime minister and other cabinet ministers are considering applying the “participation first” approach to all working-age adults.
Alan Milburn’s forthcoming report is expected to recommend training and support instead of the health element of Universal Credit for people under 25, according to the Guardian. A separate proposal would end Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for young people with disabilities, who could instead apply to a local fund for short-term expenses and equipment. People with the most severe disabilities who cannot work would keep their entitlements. These are recommendations, not settled policy changes.
The Guardian reported that ministers see the larger over-25 population as a potential source of greater savings. The report also noted that older adults may have caring responsibilities and more complex health needs. It described concerns that upfront funding for Milburn’s proposed support could come from Department of Health and Department for Education budgets.
The possible expansion risks reopening Labour divisions over welfare, the newspaper reported. It recalled a backbench rebellion that forced a major reversal of earlier health and disability benefit changes. The Guardian said the Milburn and Stephen Timms reviews were due shortly, with the government set to respond to their recommendations.
