📢 Budget 2025: What Does It Mean for Disabled Families and DWP Benefits?

Today, the Chancellor delivered the 2025 Spring Budget—and while many headlines will focus on tax cuts and economic forecasts, we know what families with disabled children are really asking:

“What does this mean for us?”

Here’s what we’ve learned so far—and how it could affect people claiming PIP, Universal Credit, and other DWP benefits.

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💷 What’s Changing in the Budget?

While we’re still reviewing the full details, several key announcements directly impact disabled people and carers:

1. Disability Benefits Are Under Reform

The government confirmed that it will press ahead with major welfare reforms—including how Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is assessed.

• They claim the number of people claiming PIP is “unsustainable,” particularly among young people with mental health conditions.
• A new consultation has been launched on tightening eligibility and changing how support is delivered—potentially replacing cash payments with service-based support.
• There are concerns this could disproportionately affect families with children who are autistic, have PDA, ADHD, or mental health needs.

⚠️ If you or your child are currently claiming PIP, your support will not stop immediately, but future eligibility could become harder.

2. Universal Credit Changes

While no major new cuts were announced, the Budget reaffirms policies already in motion:

• More people will be asked to increase work hours under Universal Credit, including those who previously had limited capability due to caring or health needs.
• Some carers and single parents may face more pressure to work, even while supporting disabled children.

Many families are already under enormous strain trying to balance care with impossible work demands. These changes may worsen that pressure.

3. No New Support for EHCP Families

Despite growing calls for reform of the SEND crisis, there was no mention of new funding for Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) or specialist school placements—leaving many families concerned that the support their children need will remain out of reach.

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😔 What Families Are Saying

We’ve been flooded with messages from parents this week. Here are just a few of the most common fears:

• “Will my child lose their PIP?”
• “If I can’t work because I care full-time, what happens when UC pressures me to?”
• “Why are we always the ones left behind?”

If you’re feeling confused or worried—you are not alone.

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🛡 What You Can Do Right Now

✅ Start gathering evidence: If you’re on PIP or planning to apply, now is the time to keep records, collect letters from schools, doctors, and therapists, and document the impact of your child’s condition.

✅ Talk to AskEllie: Our free tool gives you instant help on your legal rights, how to apply for benefits, and what to do if support is denied. We’re built by parents, for parents—visit: www.askellie.co.uk

✅ Share your story: We’re collecting real-life experiences to take to Parliament and make sure families like yours are heard. Add your voice to the growing movement:
👉 Submit Your Story Here

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📣 Final Thoughts

This Budget shows that the fight is far from over. While politicians talk about numbers, we know this is about real families—already at breaking point—being asked to give even more.

We will keep fighting to make sure your voices are heard.

We’ll be updating this post as more details emerge, including how to respond to the government’s new PIP consultation.

🧡 Stay strong. Stay loud. And know you’re not alone.

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✍️ Written by the AskEllie Team – Parents. Advocates. Fighters.