The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has provided a significant update on key disability benefits, prompted by a stark warning contained within a major charity report on the financial devastation caused by a brain tumour diagnosis.
MP Grills Ministers Over 'The Price You Pay' Report
The update came after Liberal Democrat MP for Twickenham, Munira Wilson, challenged the government in the Commons ahead of the Christmas recess. Ms Wilson, who serves as the Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Education, Children and Families, demanded to know what assessment the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions had made of the implications of a report by the Brain Tumour Charity.
The report, titled 'The Price You Pay: The Financial Impact of a Brain Tumour', presented alarming statistics from a survey of 298 patients and carers conducted between September and October 2017.
Stark Findings on Employment and Income
The charity's investigation revealed a profound financial crisis for those affected. It found that 8 in 10 brain tumour patients were forced to stop work completely or drastically reduce their hours following their diagnosis.
The ripple effect extended to carers, with over two-thirds of those looking after someone with a brain tumour also having to leave employment or cut back their working time. Consequently, the report showed that 1 in 3 respondents depended on benefits for most or all of their household income.
The Brain Tumour Charity stated the report "highlighted some serious barriers that brain tumour patients face in navigating the benefits system across the UK, both in the assessment and application process."
Government Response and Benefit Reassurance
In a written reply, DWP minister Stephen Timms outlined the support available. He emphasised that the welfare system exists to support people with living costs in times of need, pointing to Universal Credit for means-tested support.
Regarding the specific benefits questioned – Attendance Allowance, Disability Living Allowance (DLA), and Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – Mr Timms stated they "provide a contribution towards the extra costs that may arise from a long-term disability or health condition."
He highlighted that these benefits are non-contributory, non-means-tested and can be worth up to £9,747.40 per year, tax-free.
Significantly, the minister pointed to the ongoing Timms Review, launched to ensure PIP is fair and fit for the future. He confirmed the review would be co-produced with disabled people, their representative organisations, and other experts to centre lived experience.
The charity's report statistics continue to inform recommendations to politicians, healthcare professionals, and benefits assessors, keeping the financial plight of brain tumour patients on the national agenda.
