A major concern has been raised over a change in Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) policy under the new Labour government. Experts and campaigners warn that this change could be even harsher than past Conservative policies—especially for people who rely on disability and sickness benefits.
The warning comes just weeks after Labour took charge and signaled plans to review parts of the benefits system. One specific point of concern is the Work Capability Assessment (WCA). Labour is reportedly open to continuing with a policy previously introduced by the Tories, which could tighten eligibility for disability benefits.
What’s the change being discussed?
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The key issue here is the removal or reform of the WCA, which is used to decide whether someone is fit to work or eligible for certain benefits. Last year, the Conservative government announced plans to scrap the WCA and replace it with a new system by 2025.
However, instead of removing it completely, Labour might adopt a version of this plan that limits support for people with mental health challenges or fluctuating conditions—making it harder for them to qualify for financial help.
Why people are worried
Disability campaigners and charities have voiced strong concerns. They fear this could push many vulnerable people into poverty or force them into jobs they’re not well enough to do.
Clare Haughey, Scotland’s new Minister for Social Security, called it “a very worrying direction,” and former disability rights commissioner Tara Flood described the proposed change as “worse than anything we’ve seen under the Tories.”
There’s also fear that this reform is being done without enough input from the disabled community. Many believe it risks ignoring lived experiences and focusing only on saving government money.
Will it affect current claimants?
As of now, no official decision has been made. But if Labour moves forward with the changes suggested by the previous Conservative government, people currently receiving Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) and Universal Credit due to health reasons could face new assessments or lose out on future support.
The DWP has not released new details, but multiple reports suggest that changes could start being implemented from late 2025 or early 2026, once a new system is designed.
What’s next?
For now, campaigners are urging the government to listen to disabled people, carers, and medical professionals before moving forward. They’re calling for genuine consultations and for any reforms to be made with fairness, compassion, and proper evidence.
Until then, millions of benefit claimants are watching closely—worried that the new government may not be as different from the last as they had hoped.