On 16 March, the Government released a Spring Statement (also known as the Spring Budget) updating the public about its progress towards its financial goals.

Jackie O’Sullivan, Executive Director of Communication, Advocacy and Activism at learning disability charity Mencap responds to the Spring Statement:

"Today's budget included absolutely nothing to tackle the dire state of social care and the NHS. Instead the Chancellor prioritised crumbling roads over the crumbling social care and health system. 

"The extended energy support announced in today's budget is welcome, but the Government should commit to long-term targeted support and introduce a discounted social energy tariff.

"The Disability White Paper promises some positive changes for people with a learning disability, like the removal of the Work Capability Assessment, but as always the devil is in the detail. The government continues to focus on threats and financial sanctions, rather than addressing inadequate benefit rates and investing in supporting people into work. These priorities reflect a lack of understanding of the experience of people with a learning disability.”