Disability benefits change means my son could lose £200 a month – it’s terrifying

Erika Lye, a devoted mother, describes herself as “the sunshine” in her home, radiating warmth for her two sons, Logan, 20, and Jack, 16. Yet, in private, she grapples with anxiety over finances. A recent alteration to the health aspect of Universal Credit has sparked her fears of plunging her family into financial instability.

This week marks the implementation of a policy shift that has been in the works since last year’s political debates on social benefits. Starting 6 April, individuals applying for the health-related supplement will receive only half the monthly payment compared to current recipients. The government aims to save £1bn by 2030/31 through this adjustment, reducing the monthly allowance from £429.80 to £217.26.

“The Universal Credit system has forced too many people to be written off, left behind, and denied the opportunities to build better lives for themselves and their families,” said a DWP representative. “That’s why we’re introducing these reforms—increasing the incentive to work, ensuring sick or disabled people can access genuine support, and reducing the cost of living by raising the standard rate.”

Logan, who has cerebral palsy and learning disabilities, was approved for the health top-up in 2025. However, his younger brother Jack, who is autistic and non-verbal, will not qualify until after 6 April, when he completes his homeschooling. This means Jack might face a £200 monthly shortfall, a prospect that keeps Erika awake at night.

Some exceptions apply to the new policy. Those nearing the end of life or meeting the Severe Conditions Criteria will still receive the higher payment. The DWP explained that this requires healthcare professionals to confirm a condition is lifelong with no chance of improvement. While Erika hopes Jack will qualify, she remains uncertain.

The government’s analysis highlighted that many beneficiaries struggle with the standard allowance of £400 for a single person. The health top-up, adding an extra £400, was seen as a reason to delay work. It noted that 1.9 million people received the supplement in 2019/2020, expected to rise to three million by 2029/30.

Families reliant on the top-up express worry over its potential consequences. Derek Sinclair, a welfare rights expert, described the changes as a “massive financial blow.” He emphasized that many households pool benefits to cover therapies, equipment, and daily needs for disabled children. “We already know families with disabled children are financially strained,” he said. “This could leave them without essential support.”

The Joseph Rowntree Foundation reported that 50% of those receiving the health top-up face challenges like unheated homes, unpaid bills, or food insecurity. Around 900,000 children live in households where someone claims it. The charity highlighted that younger recipients are particularly vulnerable. Iain Porter, a policy adviser, criticized the abrupt rollout of the change, calling it “an unjust situation made worse.” “The government should ensure Universal Credit covers basic necessities,” he added.