Monday 13 December 2010

National Autistic Society response to our questions on the Disability Allowance Reform documents

To the Policy Officer NAS from ACT NOW

We have been reading the Disability Allowance Reform documents and note that it is stated that DWP are developing the new benefit 'in collaboration with a group of independent specialists in health, social care and disability, including disabled people'.  We are assuming/hoping that the NAS are included within the group of specialist/groups that are being consulted with. Do you have any idea at all if there are any adults with autism included within this group?

We are also keen to find out more about their view of the 'objective assessment of individual need' and what that really means. Any idea? 

NAS Response
Thanks for your email. No we are not on the group, and as far as I am aware nor are many of the other disability charities e.g. Scope and RNIB are not on it. I understand that RADAR and Equality 2025 are on it though.

We are asking for a list of members and seeking a meeting with Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). We are very concerned and the key ways we'll be working on this is via lobbying on the upcoming bill and responding to the consultation, we're developing further campaign / lobbying plans at the moment. 

The NAS, as our supporter, are keeping us informed and updated on this matter.  We hope to give you further information as soon as possible.

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