Sheffield Green councillor say Reform’s proposed benefits changes are ‘cruel cut’ that will damage economy
Reform UK has announced welfare reform plans centred on reducing government spending by £50 billion through restructuring disability benefits eligibility and restricting support to non-citizens. A Sheffield Green councillor responsible for adult social care has publicly criticised the proposals, arguing they represent a harmful policy that will disproportionately affect vulnerable residents whilst damaging the city's economic circulation.
The councillor emphasises that disability recipients—including approximately 13,700 pensioners in Sheffield—rely on these payments for essential living costs such as transport, personal care support, and household services. He contends that the cuts would eliminate independence for disabled residents whilst simultaneously reducing local economic activity, since the welfare payments support jobs and businesses across the city. The councillor is calling on Sheffield's Reform representatives to oppose the policy within their party.
- Reform UK announced plans to cut welfare spending by £50 billion, replacing the disability payment scheme (PIP) with a more restrictive alternative and blocking benefits for foreign nationals
- Sheffield's Green Party councillor warns the changes will harm over 45,000 local residents dependent on disability support and reduce spending in the local economy