Disability Living Allowance replaced by PIP scheme

The Disability Living Allowance will gradually be replaced for new claimants by Personal Independence Payment (PIP) from Monday.

The UK government says the changes will give more targeted support to those who need it.

But critics argue thousands of disabled people will lose out making it harder for them to be part of their communities.

PIPs are being introduced on Monday for new claimants in parts of the north of England and will be rolled out across the rest of the UK over the coming months.

Esther McVey, the UK government Minister for Disabled People, said Disability Living Allowance was an outdated benefit introduced over 20 years ago and needed reform to better reflect today's understanding of disability.

But Julie Thomas, from Bridgend, who represents two disability charities and is registered blind, opposes the changes.

She spoke to Oliver Hides on BBC Radio Wales.

Changes begin for disability benefit

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