News release: Anxiety levels soar among disabled people!

Proposed cuts to disability benefits are causing rising levels of anxiety among disabled people, according to Through the Roof, the Christian charity that works together with churches and people across all disabilities to advance God’s kingdom.

Lynda, a disabled volunteer with Through the Roof, currently receives disability benefits including Personal Independence Payments (PIP), which are designed to help people with long-term conditions manage daily living tasks. However, under the government's proposed new criteria, Lynda would no longer qualify for the Daily Living component – despite being a full-time wheelchair user and incomplete paraplegic – which leaves her uncertain about the future.

She says “I haven’t met anyone who has said that they don’t want to work. The problem is that many of us have conditions which make the logistics of travelling to work and finding work in suitably adapted premises very difficult. For others, working from home isn’t possible because of fluctuating medical needs e.g. on-going therapy or continence care. Conditions which cause chronic pain make concentration and focusing on work tasks impossible. Others struggle within the workplace due to mental health needs.”

For Lynda, the disability benefits she receives help cover essential costs, including repairs to her stairlift, which has broken down twice this month, and payments for her adapted wheelchair. These funds also help with heating costs, as her condition makes her more vulnerable to the cold.

“Life is hard,” admits Lynda, “but I’m fortunate because I have a working husband. Many disabled people live alone, and I don’t know what will happen to them! While many disabled people do work and find fulfilment in their jobs, we must remember that support and understanding needs to be given to those who have conditions which, through no fault of their own, mean they are unable to work.”

Lynda calls on churches and the wider Christian community to be more attuned to the needs of disabled people and make adjustments that enable everyone to flourish and use their gifts to build others up:
“Let’s listen to one another,” Lynda encourages. “Let’s hear the worries and concerns of those who are struggling. We must be aware of the resources available through organisations that can offer assistance. As a Christian community, we can provide comfort, encouragement, and hope. In Jesus’s name, we are called to offer support and rest, especially in times of distress. As He said in Matthew 11:28, 'Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.'”

Through the Roof invites churches to nominate their own Roofbreaker (Disability Champion) to reflect on the needs of individuals and ensure disabled people can fully Access the Christian life, Belong together as God’s family, and use their gifts to make disciples, for God’s glory, as part of the Great Commission.

Find out how we can resource your church for the ABC journey of disability inclusion at: https://www.throughtheroof.org/roofbreakers/ or @TTRChangesLives on social media.