Key facts
- A survey found that only 7% of respondents support cuts to disability benefits, while 49% believe spending should increase.
- Support for disability benefits remains strong across the political spectrum, including among Conservative and Reform UK voters.
- Government reviews are anticipated to propose restrictions on disability benefit spending.
- Previous government proposals for disability benefit cuts were withdrawn due to public opposition.
- The British Social Attitudes report interviewed 4,656 people across the UK between August and October 2025.
A survey has revealed a lack of public appetite for cuts to disability benefits, even among voters of the Conservative and Reform UK parties. The British Social Attitudes (BSA) report found that only 7% of respondents supported reducing spending on these benefits, while 49% advocated for an increase. This finding suggests that any government proposals to restrict disability benefit spending could face significant political challenges.
The report, which surveyed 4,656 people across the UK between August and October 2025, indicates that support for disability benefits remains remarkably strong despite broader political divisions on welfare. Even among Conservative and Reform UK voters, 40% supported increased spending on claimants unable to work, with only 10% favoring less spending.
This data emerges amid speculation that government-commissioned reviews of the Personal Independence Payment (Pip) and support for jobless youngsters may recommend spending restrictions. Previous attempts by the government to implement disability benefit cuts were met with public opposition and a Labour backbench rebellion, forcing a U-turn on £5bn in proposed savings.
While the BSA report acknowledges that public perception of 'deservingness' can influence support for cuts, it highlights that initial public backing can shift when the consequences for claimants become clear. The report suggests that governments face a challenging task in bringing the public along with significant cuts to disability benefits.
Separate reviews are underway, including one led by former welfare minister Sir Stephen Timms into Pip, which is claimed by nearly 4 million people. A review by former Labour MP Alan Milburn is also examining support for young people not in education, employment, or training (Neets), raising concerns about potential cuts to benefits for this group. Both the Conservatives and Reform UK have expressed a desire to reduce disability benefits spending, characterizing it as out of control.