A Chat with Helen – Making Sense of the Benefits Changes
We sat down for a cuppa and a chat with Helen, our Welfare Rights Officer at Vision Support, to talk about all the changes happening (and coming!) in the benefits world — especially how they might affect people living with a visual impairment. From benefit rate rises to major reforms still in the pipeline, Helen breaks it down and offers some reassuring advice.
Helen, thanks for talking with us! There’s been quite a bit happening with benefits lately — can you walk us through the main changes so far?
Yes, there’s a lot going on at the moment. In April 2025, several benefits increased, which is really important with the cost of living being what it is. For example, Attendance Allowance has gone up to £110.40 a week (higher rate), and PIP daily living enhanced is now the same.
We’re also seeing rises in Pension Credit, Universal Credit, and State Pension. These changes should bring some relief — but I also know that with rising bills, people might not actually feel like they’re better off.
That’s good to hear — but I know people are worried about future changes too. What’s on the horizon?
That’s the tricky bit. There are some big changes being proposed. One of the biggest is around PIP and how it’s assessed. Right now, you can build up points across different daily living activities — things like preparing food, managing medication, or communicating. But under the new proposal, you’d need to score at least 4 points in just one activity to qualify.
That’s really worrying for some people with sight loss, because a visual impairment can affect lots of different parts of life — but not always severely enough in one category alone to meet the new threshold. It’s something we’re keeping a very close eye on.
But just to reassure everyone — these changes are only proposals at the moment, and they’re not due to come in for at least another year. Nothing is changing about how PIP is assessed right now, and when/if it does, we’ll make sure everyone’s informed and supported through it.
There’s also talk about LCWRA (Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity) being scrapped — is that true?
Yes, the Work Capability Assessment, which is how people currently qualify for LCWRA in Universal Credit, is being phased out by 2028. That means the LCWRA element — which gives people extra money if they can’t work due to illness or disability — will be going too.
The idea is that PIP will be used instead to decide if someone needs that extra support. But again, if the PIP rules become stricter, fewer people could qualify — which would be a real concern for people with long-term conditions like visual impairment.
And what’s this “Right to Try” initiative we’ve been hearing about?
This is actually quite a positive one. The “Right to Try” is aimed at encouraging people to try going back into work without risking their benefits. So if someone gives work a go and it doesn’t work out — maybe due to health or access issues — they could go back on their previous benefits without going through a full reassessment.
It’s meant to reduce fear around trying employment, which I know holds a lot of people back. We’ll have to see how it’s rolled out, but the idea is promising.
What’s being done to help people with employment if they do want to try working?
The new employment plans are being led by Liz Kendall, and there’s talk of a £1 billion investment in employment support. That’s things like tailored coaching, skills training, and more localised support to help people find and stay in suitable jobs.
In theory, it should make it easier for people with disabilities to get meaningful work — but again, we’ll need to see how accessible and inclusive it actually is in practice. Things like accessible workplaces and adjustments still aren’t guaranteed.
I have heard that more face-to-face assessments might be coming back — how could that affect people with vision impairments?
Yes — there’s definitely a push toward more face-to-face appointments and assessments, especially as part of this new employment support system. And while some people do prefer them, for others, especially those with sight loss, it can be a real barrier.
Navigating unfamiliar places, transport, waiting rooms, even just the stress of it — it’s not always easy. I’ll always advocate for reasonable adjustments, and I’d encourage anyone to speak up if they need support, and as for a phone or video appointment instead.
It’s a lot to take in. Is there anything people can do right now to prepare or get involved?
Absolutely. First and foremost — stay informed and reach out if you’re unsure. I’m always here to help with benefits checks, form-filling, understanding decisions or just a friendly ear to listen and give advice.
But also, this is a time when people’s voices matter. Groups like RNIB are actively campaigning on these issues. They’re encouraging people to write to their MP, share their stories, and push for fairer treatment in these reforms.
And you Final Word Helen
I know all of this can feel like a lot — and it’s completely normal to feel a bit anxious or overwhelmed. But the most important thing to remember is: you don’t have to go through it alone.
Whether it’s a change in your benefit, a confusing letter, or just a feeling that something isn’t quite right — I’m here to help. Even if you’ve been told “you probably won’t get it” — let’s check. You could be entitled to more than you think.
No question is too small, and no concern is silly. If you’re unsure, just reach out — we’ll work through it together
Please don’t hesitate to call the head office on 01244 381515 or email our team on information@visionsupport.org.uk
