1. Purpose of the report and policy context

1.1 To receive any petitions submitted directly to Democratic Services or any e-Petition submitted via the council’s website.

2. Recommendations

2.1 That Council notes the petition(s).

3. Context and background information

3.1 To receive the following petition signed by 6 people at time of publication:

Proposed Cuts to Disability Benefits.

Speak Out, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals with learning disabilities, is gravely concerned about the government's proposed cuts to disability benefits. Many of our community members are anxious about these cuts and are already struggling with the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

For those living with learning disabilities, support from disability benefits is not a luxury but a necessity. These benefits provide crucial financial assistance, enabling individuals to afford basic needs such as healthcare, housing, and daily living expenses. Especially in today's challenging economic climate, reducing these benefits will exacerbate the difficulties faced by one of the most vulnerable groups in our society.

Evidence shows that people with disabilities are more likely to be living in poverty, with 48% falling below the poverty line according to a report from the Office for National Statistics. Removing this lifeline not only compromises their financial stability but also their dignity and independence.

Moreover, the government has a legal and moral obligation to protect the rights of disabled individuals as outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. By cutting these benefits, we risk breaching international commitments and setting back years of progress made in disability rights advocacy.

We urge the Council to make a strong statement against the proposed cuts. We petition the Council to lobby the government to consider the far-reaching impacts of these cuts and to explore alternative solutions that do not disproportionately affect those who are already disadvantaged.