Monday 20 February 2012

SNP Attack Workfare For Disabled People


An SNP MSP is backing Inclusion Scotland in condemning the UK Government’s proposed Workfare Scheme for disabled people as a farce.

Bob Doris SNP MSP for Glasgow is disgusted that The DWP is currently considering proposals to force long term sick and disabled people to work unpaid or have their benefits cut.

Mr Doris said: 

“If the UK Government press on with plans to compel terminally ill cancer patients and those with disabilities and mental health issues into long term compulsory unpaid work or to lose benefits is simply unacceptable.

“For the DWP to call this an 'incentive' is simply farcical and like so much of its welfare reforms the UK Government need to think again before significant and long term damage is done to many of Scotland's most vulnerable groups.

“If work and pensions were devolved to the Scottish Parliament we would be able to have a system based on fairness that meets the needs and demands of everyone in Scotland including the most needy and sick people who are limited in their ability to work.”

Inclusion Scotland’s Chief Executive, Bill Scott, said:

“Disabled people fought for their freedom and most of the old institutions have now been closed.  But it seems as though even though we are now allowed to live amongst the non-disabled we are still to be forced to work for nothing as a penalty for being different. 

“I thought that slavery had ended over 200 years ago but forcing anyone to work for nothing is just that.  We also have real fears that this could damage some people’s health – particularly those with mental health issues and variable conditions like Multiple Sclerosis."

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