A substantial portion of the British public continues to support increased investment in disability benefits, despite broader political debates around welfare spending. New findings from the British Social Attitudes survey reveal that 49% of respondents believe more should be spent on disability benefits, even if it leads to higher taxes, while only 7% favour reducing such spending.
The data, collected by the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen), underscores sustained public sympathy for disabled individuals who are unable to work. This sentiment persists across the political spectrum, with 40% of right-leaning voters still advocating for greater expenditure on disability support.
Public Opinion Shows Resilience for Disability Support
Dr. Robert de Vries, senior lecturer in quantitative sociology at the University of Kent and co-author of the study, noted that public backing for disability benefits remains undimmed by political divisions. “Despite growing political divisions on welfare, support for disability benefits remains remarkably strong,” he said. “Very few people favour cuts; disabled people are seen as among the most deserving recipients of support, and proposals to reduce disability benefits appear politically risky across the political spectrum.”
The findings arrive at a pivotal moment for the government, which is awaiting the final report from Sir Stephen Timms’s review into the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) scheme. Earlier this year, Sir Stephen described the existing application process as “degrading” and “dehumanising,” prompting calls for urgent reform.
Last month, Reform UK unveiled policies proposing the abolition of PIP and the health element of Universal Credit for working-age adults. Meanwhile, the Conservative Party has signalled plans to reassess what they term “mild” PIP claims related to anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
NHS Satisfaction Declines Amid Broader Dissatisfaction
Beyond disability benefits, the survey sheds light on deteriorating public confidence in the NHS. Only 16% of those surveyed expressed satisfaction with the time taken to secure hospital appointments, while 14% were content with A&E waiting times. GP services fared slightly better, with 27% reporting satisfaction with appointment availability.
Comparisons drawn between the challenges faced by Andy Burnham’s current administration and New Labour in 1997 highlight a widening gap in public discontent. In 1996, just before Tony Blair’s landslide victory, 36% of the public were satisfied with the NHS. That figure rose to a record high of 70% by 2010—but has since slumped to 24% in 2023 and 20% in 2025.
Bea Taylor, a fellow at the Nuffield Trust and co-author of the report, observed striking parallels in the political inheritance both governments inherited. However, she cautioned that today’s crisis extends beyond hospital care. “What’s more, the long tail of the Covid-19 pandemic has sent shockwaves through the NHS, making the road to recovery much more challenging for the current Government.”
Challenges Mount as Population Ages
The demographic shift poses additional strain on public services. The proportion of residents aged 65 and over has risen from 16% in 1997 to 19% in 2024, amplifying pressures on healthcare and social care systems alike. Experts warn that without decisive action, these trends could deepen existing inequalities and erode trust in public institutions.
Danielle Jefferies, senior analyst at The King’s Fund and another contributor to the report, emphasised the scale of the task ahead. “It took the New Labour government 13 years to restore public confidence in the NHS,” she said. “That challenge is now broader and the money tighter.” A government spokesperson responded by outlining steps already underway, including extending award review periods and increasing face-to-face assessments, supported by £3.5 billion pledged by the end of the parliamentary term.
As parties prepare for potential policy shifts following upcoming reviews, the public mood suggests that any attempt to curtail disability benefits may face significant resistance—both electoral and moral.
Why it Matters
These findings carry profound implications for policymakers navigating the delicate balance between fiscal responsibility and social obligation. With nearly half the population expressing support for increased disability benefits—even at the cost of higher taxes—political leaders must weigh short-term savings against long-term societal values. Simultaneously, declining trust in the NHS signals a deepening crisis that demands immediate attention and sustained investment. As the nation grapples with an ageing population and lingering effects of the pandemic, the choices made in the coming months will shape not only electoral outcomes but also the lived experiences of millions reliant on public services.
