11 December 2008
Methodist Church calls for welfare with dignity
Methodists have expressed concern for lone parents and people
receiving incapacity benefits following the publication of the
Welfare Reform White Paper yesterday.
While the proposals offer assistance to help some of the five
million people who claim benefits find employment, the Church
warned the proposed bill would impose new conditions and potential
sanctions to a wide range of vulnerable people.
Paul Morrison, Methodist Policy Adviser, said: "Research from the
Rowntree Foundation and others shows that those who claim benefits
exist on inadequate incomes and want opportunities to work.
Although a small minority may abuse the system, a package
containing a focus on coercion risks stigmatising the poorest and,
at worst, not treating the benefit claimants with the dignity they
deserve.
"The Church believes that those who are unable to work because of
illness, disability or caring responsibilities are valued and equal
members of society and deserve a benefit system which acknowledges
this."