Throw us a ladder: Disabled people, work and social security

All kinds of people are Disabled. We are young and old; have families, friends; quiet lives and busy lives. Some of us can't work, but many of us do (when we can).

Everyone who would like to work should have an equal chance at getting paid work, and keeping it, but some employers are reluctant to employ Disabled people.

When Disabled people do find work, we’re often faced with co-workers and managers with odd and harmful ideas about Disabled people, and what we can and can’t do (Citizens Advice report January 2026).

More workplaces are issuing ‘back to the office’ orders, or insisting on rigid hours, which excludes many Disabled people.

We need more opportunities for meaningful work that’s accessible – things like flexible hours, reasonable adjustments and Access to Work really help.

And all workplaces should be free from discrimination and prejudice, so that everyone can thrive.

Social security should be a safety net

Social security should be a safety net for our society. But last year the Government attempted to restrict support for Disabled people, both those of us who can work, and those of us who cannot. It’s left many Disabled people feeling threatened.

Employers are refusing too many Disabled workers. The Government wants to turn too many Disabled people away from support. And over a quarter of Disabled people in the UK have been pushed into poverty (Joseph Rowntree Foundation January 2026).

We need to change it.

We all need security, and part of that is social security system that ensures every person who is Disabled or unwell can still live safely.

Putting things right

The Timms review of PIP, and the inquiry into disabled people and flexible work, are chances to tell employers and the Government to put things right.

That means:

Opportunities for meaningful work that’s accessible to Disabled people who can work, and a workplace free from discrimination and prejudice.

Security and the knowledge that the social security system will be there for everyone when they need it, to make sure Disabled people have a decent standard of living, whether we’re well enough to work or not.

Big improvements to things that make work more possible for Disabled people, like flexible working, Access to Work, reasonable adjustments, and the Disability Confident scheme.

If you agree, why not join us and be part of the journey?