Review proposes cutting sickness and disability benefits for young adults

A report commissioned by the government and led by Alan Milburn is set to recommend a radical overhaul of the welfare system, which includes moving people under 25 off the main sickness and disability benefits. Instead of claiming the health element of universal credit or personal independence payment, younger claimants would receive a basic allowance, alongside potential additional cost allowances and billions invested in employment support. While the proposals aim to improve the long-term life chances of the nearly one million young people currently not in education, employment, or training, Milburn acknowledged that the plan is not pain-free and could result in less financial support at the start of a claim. The exact financial details will become clearer early next year when the government publishes legislation to implement the changes, though the recommendations are expected to face opposition from some Labour MPs.