Stealth Cuts: DSA and A2W parallels

DWP and BIS are using veiled processes to inflict cuts to disabled people. Parliamentary investigation into Access to Work found that "many Access to Work applicants and service users are unclear about the basis on which the Department makes decisions on eligibility and levels of awards. There is currently an unacceptable lack of clarity and transparency around this"(page 44) The same is true with regard to Disabled Students Allowance. The current application form for DSA and the information available on the direct.gov website and Student Loans Company does not inform students that the evidence submitted must show that they have a disability as defined by the Equality Act. This was a change to eligibility standards that was brought in before an impact analysis and with little or no consultation or notice for disability advisers. DSA has also experienced the 'consultation that was not a consultation' and the issuing of draft administrative guidance for comment that contains nothing to actually comment on in key areas such as the process for collecting the £200 laptop tax, exceptional case process, appeals and adjudication. There is detailed background on the Access to Work 'quiet cuts' situation in the Guardian plus a comment about the parallels with DSA.