Government announces new medical assessments for Disability Living Allowance

"The Disability Living Allowance recognises the extra costs of having a disability regardless of whether or not social services deem the individual eligible for support. With the increasing pressures to social care this means it is often the only financial support people with a learning disability receive. We want to ensure that any medical assessment does not unfairly squeeze people with a learning disability out.

"The Chancellor's commitment to take tough action to reduce public spending must not lead to tough consequences for people with a learning disability. We recognise that cuts have to be made but it is vital that we protect frontline public services enabling people with a learning disability to live independently. These services are not a luxury but an essential part of their lives.

"Rising inflation and continuing growth in numbers of people with a learning disability means that, even if budgets standstill, people with a learning disability are going to be seriously affected. We fear that short term cost savings could have long term implications for people with a learning disability and their families and carers."