UCU: Opposition to Welfare Reform Act

Motion

Motion text: Congress notes with grave concern all aspects of the Government's welfare reform agenda which adversely affect the lives of many disabled people.

Congress is appalled that there seems to be little Government recognition of the barriers faced by disabled people in the workplace and rejects any proposal to link entitlement to benefits with compulsory attendance on the 'Pathways to work scheme'.

Congress is dismayed that although the Government has promised to provide higher levels of support to disabled people for whom employment is not an option, this commitment does not appear to be a welfare reform priority.

Congress further believes that the threat to withdraw benefits from people who refuse medication is an abuse of human rights.

Congress resolves to launch a campaign of opposition to the Welfare Reform Act.