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Our reaction to the Spring Statement

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Today the Chancellor has announced that the health element of Universal Credit will be cut by 50% for new claimants from 2026, and frozen for existing claimants until 2029-30. This follows proposed changes announced last week to benefits and employment support. The Trust has written to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Liz Kendall MP, to highlight our concerns about the potential negative impact on people with CF of some of the changes, as well as the areas that we think could be more positive.

David Ramsden, Cystic Fibrosis Trust Chief Executive, said: “Freezing the health element of Universal Credit and reducing it for new claimants creates an unfair system andis a cut in essential support for people with life-limiting conditions like cystic fibrosis who need to work part time, or are unable to work due to the daily impact of their health challenges and treatments. 

"This comes on top of the proposals announced last week to reduce eligibility for Personal Independence Payments (PIP) and to remove the health element of Universal Credit for young people under 22. This will put some people with CF at serious risk of financial hardship at a time when their health and independence need to be supported, not undermined. The government must listen to people with CF and urgently rethink these plans.

"The Trust is here to provide specialist information and advice for everyone who needs it. Please contact our Helpline or speak to your CF team if you are worried.” 

Last week, the Government proposed significant changes to the benefits system. Click here to read our blog where we break down the key changes, and how we’ll continue to fight for a system that supports people affected by CF.

It’s important to note that the proposals will be discussed and debated, and some will go through formal consultation over the next few months before final changes are made. You can read our FAQs here.

Gillian, who has CF, sitting at her computer at her kitchen table

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David Ramsden, Cystic Fibrosis Trust Chief Executive, said: "Benefits help many people with CF cover the additional costs of living with a life-limiting condition - from essential medical equipment to accessible transport for hospital appointments.

"We’re reviewing the potential impact of today’s government proposed changes to benefits and will share more over the coming days, but it’s important to note that these do not come in immediately and will go through discussion and consultation over the coming months before a final set of changes is confirmed.

"We will continue to campaign for a benefits system that understands and supports people with CF, and to provide specialist information and advice for everyone who needs it. If you are worried, please speak to your CF team or contact our Helpline."