PROPOSED WELFARE REFORMS
WHY YOUR VOICE MATTERS IN THE GOVERNMENTS GREEN PAPER CONSULTATION
The UK Government has launched a consultation titled “Pathways to Work: Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working.” This Green Paper outlines significant proposed changes to welfare support, which could affect millions, particularly those living with long-term health conditions or disabilities. It is vital that individuals and organisations respond to this consultation, not just to express concerns, but to help shape a more inclusive and supportive system.
Key Proposals at a Glance
The Government is proposing several reforms intended to simplify benefit assessments and promote employment. However, many of these changes could result in reduced financial support for vulnerable people. The main proposals include:
• Abolishing the Work Capability Assessment by 2028
• Removing the current ‘fit for work’ test, potentially changing how people qualify for support.
• Changes to Universal Credit
• Ending access to the Health Element top-up for claimants under the age of 22.
• Increasing the top rate of Universal Credit above inflation by 2029/30.
• Reforming Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessments
• Some individuals may lose their entitlement entirely, and the consultation is seeking views on what support (if any) should be offered to them in that case.
• Introducing a new Unemployment Insurance Benefit
• This would be based on National Insurance contributions, with potential eligibility for those with long-term health conditions.
• Employment and Wellbeing: The Government’s Perspective
• The consultation highlights the Government’s view that employment offers not only financial stability but also improved physical and mental health. As stated in the executive summary:
“For many people, work is an important source of purpose and relationships in their lives. It also significantly reduces their risk of poverty and is the best way to raise living standards… good work is good for physical and mental health.“
While the benefits of employment are widely recognised, these proposed changes raise serious concerns about accessibility, implementation, and the real-world impact on those already facing inequalities.
Our Perspective: Independence Must Not Come at the Cost of Support
We share the Government’s vision of promoting independence, community engagement, and better health outcomes. However, reducing financial support or making benefits harder to access risks increasing stress, inequality, and hardship for those who need help the most.
From our experience in Homeshare, we’ve seen firsthand how meaningful connection and purpose can improve wellbeing. Many of our Homesharers find companionship, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose—often valuing these just as much, if not more, than the financial arrangement itself.
This demonstrates that empowering people doesn’t always require cutting support—it means investing in systems that promote dignity, connection, and stability.
Why You Should Respond
We urge everyone to take part in this consultation. Your response can help ensure that changes to welfare are made fairly and with empathy. As an organisation, we will be calling on the Government to:
Provide clear, accessible communication about changes.
Ensure meaningful support and funding for those impacted.
