In March this year, the current Labour government published its green paper titled ‘Pathways to Work: Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working’. It outlined a series of proposed reforms aimed at getting more people who claim Personal Independence Payment (PIP) back into the workplace, including autistic people and people with learning disabilities. 

However, the paper failed to recognise the real barriers autistic people and people with learning disabilities face when it comes to employment. It also overlooked the fact that many rely on PIP to manage their daily lives – not just to support them into work. 

This raised significant concerns among charities and organisations like ours that advocate for disabled people. The proposed changes were expected to impact 9 in 10 disabled people. 

Following strong lobbying from constituents and charity professionals, many MPs began to listen and show support leading to a government U-turn. 

While this feels like a hard-earned victory, it’s important to remember this is just one part of a much bigger battle. The green paper is still under review, with final decisions not expected until 2026 and public consultation remains open. 

What this moment makes clear is how easily the voices of autistic people and people with learning disabilities are still overlooked in major policy decisions. It also shows just how vital advocacy is in making sure those voices are amplified and respected. 

As we look to the future, we must keep challenging reforms that risk creating more barriers for disabled people. We must keep advocating — not just for fairer welfare policies, but for a society where people with learning disabilities have real opportunities to thrive, participate, and above all, #BeHeard. 

Read our report here: