A report from the British Social Attitudes survey indicates that public backing for disability benefits has remained robust despite growing political and fiscal concerns about their cost. The analysis reveals that fewer than one in 10 respondents support reducing welfare payments for disabled individuals, while nearly half of those surveyed indicated willingness to accept higher taxes to fund increased disability benefit spending.
The findings carry particular relevance given the projected financial trajectory of disability benefits. Current spending on Personal Independence Payment, the primary disability benefit in the UK, has grown substantially from £16.3bn in 2019/20 to £27.3bn in 2024/25, with forecasts predicting spending will exceed £41bn by 2030. Approximately four million people in England and Wales currently receive PIP.
Dr Robert de Vries from the University of Kent, a co-author of the report, emphasized that proposals to reduce disability benefits “appear politically risky across the political spectrum.” Support spans voters across major parties, with 57% of Labour voters, and majorities of Conservative and Reform UK supporters opposing cuts. The analysis, based on 4,656 interviews conducted between August and October 2025, also found strong backing for supplementary assistance with specific costs associated with disability, including help with cooking (83% support), budgeting (80%), and washing (78%).
Researchers noted that broader welfare support for low-income individuals stands near historically low levels, with only 27% supporting increased spending for the poor even with higher taxes. However, disability benefits appear to occupy a distinct position in public perception. The report’s authors cautioned that public attitudes toward disability benefits may fluctuate depending on which populations are considered most deserving of support.
The government has indicated plans to introduce proposals for PIP reform in the autumn, following an interim report from the summer that concluded the current benefit system requires substantial restructuring.
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