The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is moving to close a legal loophole that currently allows serious offenders detained in hospitals to claim thousands of pounds in state benefits.
Campaigning Families Welcome "Decisive" Policy Shift
Under plans announced by Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden, individuals serving indefinite hospital orders for crimes such as manslaughter could be barred from receiving Universal Credit. This change would align their status with that of prisoners, who are already prohibited from claiming benefits.
The proposed reform has been strongly welcomed by the families of victims. Dr Sanjoy Kumar and Dr Sinead O’Malley, whose 19-year-old daughter Grace O’Malley-Kumar was killed in the Nottingham attacks in 2023, said they were "delighted" by the announcement.
"For us, the campaigning families, this is what decisive and bold departmental leadership looks like," they stated. Valdo Calocane, who killed Grace and her friend Barnaby Webber, was given an indefinite hospital order and could currently be eligible for over £800 a month in benefits.
Secretary of State Acts on "Clear Injustice"
Pat McFadden condemned the existing system, stating it was contrary to public values. "I don’t think there’s a single household in Britain who believes it’s right that convicted criminals receive thousands of pounds a year in benefits," he said.
He emphasised that the current rules are unfair to victims' families and taxpayers, and that the government does not believe in rewarding acts of violence. "That’s why I’m acting to right the wrongs within our benefits system," McFadden added, explaining the move aims to ensure support goes to those who genuinely need it.
Ending "Added Pain" for Bereaved Families
The family of another victim, Kennedi-Westcarr-Sabaroche, who was strangled by Gogoa Lois Tape in 2024, also praised the planned change. Her mother and uncle, Linda and Leon Westcarr, called it a "long-overdue reform."
"We are grateful that the current Secretary of State has listened and acted with humanity," they said. "While this change does not undo the suffering already experienced by families like ours, it removes the added pain of knowing such injustices could continue."
The policy shift, spearheaded by the Labour government, is seen as a significant step towards greater accountability in the welfare system, ensuring public funds are not used to support those convicted of serious violent crimes.
