Steve Winyard, RNIB Head of Policy and Campaigns, says: "The Government's plan for growth must not ignore the contribution of disabled people to our economy. Despite the Government's stated aim to get more people into work, it continues to cut support to help disabled people of working age into employment.
"While at RNIB we welcome the promise of support and apprenticeships for younger job seekers, the reality is that many people lose their sight as they get older. It is vital that they are supported to remain in work or train for alternative employment, maintaining their income, independence and ability to contribute to the economy.
"At RNIB we have serious concerns about the flawed work capability assessment for Employment Support Allowance and proposals to time limit the contributory element of this benefit. Blind and partially sighted people will be denied support to overcome the considerable barriers to the job market, and risk moving further into poverty.
"In addition, increasing employers contributions to Access to Work funding will not encourage businesses to invest in disabled employees, when DWP's own research which shows that 92 per cent of employers would find it 'difficult' or 'impossible' to employ somebody blind or partially sighted.
"RNIB will continue to examine the details of today's Budget, and defend the rights of blind and partially sighted people to receive support to live independently. The Government has repeatedly promised fairness, and on that we intend to hold them to account."
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For further information contact the RNIB Media Relations Team on 020 7391 2223 or email pressoffice@rnib.org.uk. Out of hours call 07968 482812.
About RNIB
Every day another 100 people in the UK will start to lose their sight. There are around two million people in the UK with sight problems. RNIB is the leading charity working in the UK offering practical support, advice and information for anyone with sight difficulties. If you, or someone you know, has a sight problem RNIB can help. Call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or visit www.rnib.org.uk.
RNIB is a partner in the UK Vision Strategy, a ground-breaking UK-wide initiative which seeks a major transformation in the UK's eye health, eye care and sight loss services. The strategy was launched in April 2008 in response to a World Health Assembly global resolution to reduce avoidable blindness by the year 2020 and to improve support and services for blind and partially sighted people. To find out more visit: www.vision2020uk.org.uk/ukvisionstrategy.