'Stop persecuting the sick'

The government starts introducing a new benefit called Personal Independence Payment (PIP) on Monday.

PIP will replace Disability Living Allowance for eligible working age people aged 16 to 64.

It is assessment-based, focusing on an individual's ability to carry out a range of key activities necessary to everyday life.

The government says the changes will give more targeted support to those who need it most, but critics argue thousands of disabled people will lose out, making it harder for them to be part of their communities.

Margaret Allen, from Chadderton in Lancashire, is registered blind with Retinitis pigmentosa, and can not work because of her eyesight.

She is worried that the change in the system will cause her to lose money for petrol payments which she and her husband need.