PRESS RELEASE FROM ALISTAIR STRATHERN MP
TUESDAY 19 MARCH 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Outrage has poured out after it was revealed a Bedfordshire resident was forced soil themselves on a three hour call to access disability support.
The resident in question was a bowel cancer survivor with severe arthritis who called for an enhanced medical assessment so they could receive Personal Independence Payments (PIP). Due to their needs, they shockingly had no choice but to suffer the indignity of soiling themselves to make it through the marathon call.
Mid Bedfordshire MP Alistair Strathern raised this case directly with Work and Pensions Minister Mims Davies in the House of Commons last night [March 18], saying:
"I was heartbroken to hear the experience of a constituent recently, when she had to go through an enhanced medical assessment for PIP.
"Due to her needs, she had to suffer the indignity of soiling herself just to complete the assessment. How on earth can that be okay?
"I would like to understand what steps are being taken to reduce the times of these assessments and to hear what can be done to ensure they are finally undertaken with basic human compassion."
The story has caused an outcry on social media, with commenters calling this "shocking", "appalling" and "a national disgrace".
Mr Strathern has said he will continue to push for answers, and is already in contact with the DWP.
Editor's Notes:
Alistair Strathern's full contribution can be seen here:
ENDS
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