Government scraps plans to remove DLA mobility component
29 November 2011
The Government has decided to reverse previous plans to remove the mobility component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), which is replacing Disability Living Allowance, from people living in residential care.
The mobility component provides vital support to allow disabled people who live in residential care homes to get out independently, by allowing them to meet some of the extra costs of accessing suitable transport or to purchase appropriate mobility aids.
Gillian Morbey, Chief Executive of Sense, said:
"We are pleased that the Government has reconsidered its position. The mobility allowance is an essential benefit as it helps ensure disabled people meet the cost of getting out and about and living as independently as possible. It is particularly important for deafblind people who require mobility and guiding support to get around their communities.
"We also recognise the thousands of disabled people who campaigned to ensure the importance of this crucial benefit was understood. This is a positive example of the Government listening to the concerns of disabled people and the voluntary sector, and we look forward to working in partnership on other aspects of the Bill."