25,698 Bedford Borough residents could be hit with benefit cuts

Bedford Borough Liberal Democrats have condemned the Government for their refusal to commit to uprating benefits in line with inflation. The research shows that a staggering total of 25,698 residents in Bedford Borough could end up seeing their support cut should the Conservatives go through with their plans

Analysis from the House of Commons Library commissioned by the Liberal Democrats has also shown that in Bedford Borough, 2,149 people who receive the Disability Living Allowance, which helps disabled people with living costs, would be in line to take a real terms cut to their income. The families of disabled children who require the most support, meanwhile, would see a devastating £229 less per year in real terms. Bedford Liberal Democrats are urging the Government to immediately uprate benefits across the board for all those who need them.

Portfolio Holder for Adult Services Councillor Dean Crofts said "I am horrified that support for the most vulnerable, such as disabled children, could soon be cut to the bone. I know many people are gripped with anxiety over this potential blow, which could push many of them into poverty and hurt their ability to care for their loved ones.

"It is quite unbelievable how out of touch and heartless this government has become. They're on another planet if they think residents want to see less support for the poorest and for vulnerable children, for the sake of tax cuts for the richest corporations. The government must end the anguish and worry of local families and commit to up-rating benefits with inflation immediately."