British Deaf Association Statement on the Proposed Cuts to Disability Benefits and Access to Work
The British Deaf Association is deeply alarmed and outraged by the potential cuts to Disability Living Allowance, Personal Independence Payment, and Access to Work under the proposed decisions by the Department for Work and Pensions and the Labour Party. These benefits are not luxuries; they are lifelines. They allow Deaf and disabled individuals to survive, to work, to pay their bills, and to live with dignity.
Without this essential support, many in our community will be left struggling—forced into poverty, unable to afford basic necessities, and isolated from society. The fear of losing these benefits is unbearable, leaving many wondering how they will make ends meet. Deaf people already face barriers every single day—barriers to communication, to employment, to education, and to public services. Stripping away these benefits will only deepen the inequality and suffering that Deaf and disabled individuals already endure.
A board trustee of the British Deaf Association, Hamza Shaikh, has shared the following heartfelt statement, reflecting the devastating impact these cuts may have:
“The potential to remove my disability benefits has left me feeling like a second-class citizen in this country, and that’s really disheartening.
These benefits are crucial not just for my daily life but also for managing my bills and expenses. Unfortunately, the situation with Access to Work has only added to the difficulties I’m facing.
I truly hope that this Deaf-led organisation will be a strong voice and stand up against the government.”
This is not just a policy change. This is an attack on the most vulnerable in our society. It is a betrayal of Deaf and disabled people who have fought tirelessly for the right to live independently, to work, to contribute, and to have the same opportunities as everyone else. It is a direct message that our lives, our struggles, and our voices do not matter.
We refuse to be silent. We refuse to be ignored.
The British Deaf Association demands that the government and the Labour Party listen to the voices and signing of those affected. We demand that they recognise the catastrophic harm these cuts will cause and work with us and other Deaf-led organisations to create a better world before it is too late.
To those in our community who are scared, who feel abandoned, who do not know what the future holds—you are not alone. We will fight for you. We will stand beside you. And together, we will make our voices heard.
If you have been affected, we urge you to speak out, share your story, and join us in this urgent fight for justice.
For further information please contact Julia Esse, Head of Communications and Fundraising, at julia.esse@bda.org.uk.
British Deaf Association
21 March 2025