Defend Independent Living: Save the Independent Living Fund

The Independent Living Fund was established as a ring-fenced sum of money which could be accessed by severely disabled people who often need expensive 24 hour care.

This funding has made it possible for people to remain in their homes rather than in institutions.  In 2010 the fund was closed to new applicants.  Last year the Government decided to close down the fund completely and make local Councils responsible for administering funding.

Local authorities will not have to ring fence any money from Central Government for this kind of support meaning they cash strapped councils may simply divert the money elsewhere.  With local authorities already buckling under harsh cuts, soaring homelessness and an upcoming Council Tax crisis, many may choose to place some disabled people back in (no doubt privately run) care homes in an attempt to cut costs.

As spokesperson for Disabled People Against Cuts (DPAC),  Linda Burnip has said, the closure of the fund:  “in terms of independent living, is the single most regressive action the Condems could have taken.”

Support is needed urgently to save this vital funding which allows the most severely disabled people to stay in their homes and lead independent lives.

Please visit, share and tweet the latest information from DPAC on how you can help:  http://www.dpac.uk.net/2013/02/defend-independent-living-save-the-independent-living-fund/

Those in London join the vigil to save the Independent Living Fund on March 13th.
Meet outside the Royal Courts of Justice in The Strand on 13th March at 12.30pm.  More details on DPAC at: http://www.dpac.uk.net/2013/02/vigil-to-save-ilf/

Pic from the highly recommended Crippen Cartoons.

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The Void