Young disabled people need financial security AND opportunities to participate
3 mins read
Wednesday 7 October 2026
It was reported in the media last week that the government is considering removing the Universal Credit (UC) health element for disabled young people under the age of 25. Reports also suggested existing claimants could be affected.
These options have not been announced as government policy, but we know the reports will be worrying for families.
The health element is an additional amount of UC for people whose disability or health condition significantly limits their ability to work and take part in work-related activities.
The government previously proposed delaying access to this payment until age 22 in its Pathways to Work green paper. It has since said it will consider the findings of Alan Milburn’s wider review into young people and work before deciding whether to introduce this restriction.
Contact has been campaigning against the proposed cuts and over 2,000 of you have joined us by taking action expressing your concern.
What could this mean for families?
Removing this support would put further pressure on families already facing significant financial challenges. For some families, it could mean an overall drop of more than £600 a month when their young person moves from child-related benefits to claiming UC as an adult. The amount would depend on the family’s circumstances.
Una Summerson, Contact’s Head of Policy and Campaigns, said: “We share the government’s ambition for disabled young people to work and thrive. But removing financial security risks reducing opportunities rather than creating them. This support can help young people afford the equipment and transport they need to take part in work or study. For some young people, their disabilities or care needs mean paid employment is not possible. They need support to lead fulfilling lives too.
Understanding young people’s circumstances
The government is looking at ways to reduce the number of young people classed as NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training). But young people receiving the UC health element are not all in the same position. Some are still in education or training, or are working with UC topping up their earnings.
Una Summerson added: “Ministers have repeatedly said that those with the most severe disabilities will be protected. But we still don’t know what this means, what criteria would apply, or how difficult it would be to prove eligibility.
“Before making such a fundamental change, we are calling on the government to publish the evidence. How many young people receiving the health element are NEET? How many are studying, working or volunteering? And among those who are NEET, how many cannot participate because of their disability or health condition?”
Help us campaign
Now is an important time to make our voices heard, before decisions are made. Email your MP today to ask them to protect financial support for disabled young people. We have prepared an email you can personalise, making it quick and easy to take action.
Sharing your family’s experience in the media can also show why this support matters. We are expecting the Milburn review, to be published next week. This is looking at ways to reduce the number of young people who are NEET including reducing financial support. Journalists are looking to speak to families and young people who could be affected. If you are be interested in speaking out, get in touch with our press team. We can explain what would be involved and support you if you decide to speak out.