A full-time carer in Sunderland says his household could face financial ruin if controversial government plans to cut disability benefits are passed.
Michal Chantkowski, 40, works for a local charity and also cares for his partner, who suffers from fibromyalgia, asthma, diabetes, and bipolar disorder. Under proposed reforms to the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) system, she stands to lose both her disability support and the disability component of Universal Credit.
“We’re already struggling. If this goes through, we’ll lose £8,400 a year. That means no rent, no proper food. It’s terrifying,” he told SGM. “This isn’t about laziness—her doctor says she can’t work more than 12 hours a week.”
Chantkowski and other disabled residents protested earlier this month outside Sunderland Central MP Lewis Atkinson’s office, demanding clarity on how local MPs plan to vote when the bill goes before Parliament in June.
“I want a straight answer from every Sunderland MP,” said Chantkowski. “Disabled people deserve to know who’s with them.”
The Department for Work and Pensions has proposed the £5 billion cut as a way to reduce spending and encourage more people into work. But disability rights organisations warn it could plunge an additional 400,000 people into poverty, including 50,000 children.
Responding to concerns, MP Lewis Atkinson said: “The welfare system needs reform. That said, I recognise the anxiety these proposals are causing and have offered to meet constituents who wish to discuss their circumstances.”
The Department for Work and Pensions has not yet responded to requests for comment.