Day: June 28, 2025

UK government’s welfare reforms will be ‘devastating’ for sick and disabled people in Scotland, says CAS

CITIZENS Advice Scotland says the Westminster Government’s proposed welfare reforms will be devastating for sick and disabled people in Scotland.

Emma Jackson, CAS head of social justice, says: ““The proposed welfare reforms will be devastating for sick and disabled people across the UK.

“However, Citizens Advice Scotland is deeply concerned that the UK Government is not sufficiently considering the unique impact of these proposed reforms on people in Scotland.  

“Around two thirds of the people accessing support from the Scottish CAB network have a disability or health condition, and our evidence shows that people already cannot afford the essentials. These cuts will force more people into debt, destitution, and despair.  

“From what we understand, alongside reducing incomes, there is a high risk that welfare reforms could make the claims process even more complicated for people in Scotland, increasing the likelihood that they will not access their full support entitlements. 

“It is crucial that the UK Government halts and reconsiders these reforms. Meaningful consultation is required with the Scottish Government, disabled people and the third sector in Scotland.

“We strongly urge MPs to vote against the proposed welfare reforms because they will expose sick and disabled people in Scotland to significant harm.” 

KEIR Starmer’s Labour government has performed another U-Turn and has watered down their proposals in an attempt to stave off a humiliating defeat in a Commons vote on Tuesday.

They believe they will be able to convince enough Labour MPS to support the controversial Bill and remain hard at work persuading rebels to come into line before the crucial vote.

The Tories have ‘helpfully’ offered to support the Labour government’s welfare bill, albeit with conditions attached.

A substantial number of Labour MPs remain unconvinced, however, and are determined to reject legislation they see as punishing ill and disabled people:

Left wing MP Richard Burgon said: “It is significant that Disability Labour – the Labour Party’s official disabled person’s affiliate organisation – has issued a statement that the government’s concessions are insufficient and is calling on all MPs to vote against the benefits Bill on Tuesday:

Helen Barnard, director of policy at Trussell, said: “The significant concessions made by the UK government are welcome, but proposals still present a bleak future for future claimants and still risk placing the government’s commitments to end the need for emergency food and tackle poverty in serious jeopardy.

“Being disabled isn’t a choice. Our fears remain the same, and key MP concerns still remain to be addressed. As it stands, we still have a pledge to review the PIP assessment that has no clear bearing on these changes.

“MPs will still be voting without a full picture of the impact on their constituents, particularly of the proposed ‘4 point rule’ for PIP claims – which are expected to impact nearly half a million people, and force more disabled people to the doors of food banks.

“We urge MPs who stood against the bill to continue to do so, and protect the people these changes will affect in the near future.”

Plans submitted to transform Leith’s ‘iconic’ Cables Wynd House and Linksview House

The City of Edinburgh Council’s retrofit project has taken a major step forward this month with the submission of a planning application by Collective Architecture.

Built in the 1960s and now designated as Category A listed buildings, Cables Wynd House and Linksview House collectively provide 310 homes, the majority of which are owned by the Council for social rent.

These landmark buildings have served generations of residents, and this project represents a significant investment in securing their future as safe, high-quality homes.

The proposed works are being driven by the need to meet the Scottish Government’s Energy Efficiency Standard for Social Housing – EESSH2.

Achieving compliance will require substantial upgrades to both the building fabric and mechanical systems. Alongside this, the Council has identified the opportunity to deliver wider improvements that will bring the buildings in line with modern new-build standards.

Key elements of the proposal include:

  • Energy Efficiency Upgrades: Improved insulation, window replacements, and energy-efficient heating systems to meet EESSH2 standards.
  • Fire Safety Enhancements: Installation of sprinkler systems, smoke ventilation, a new fire-fighting lift, and improved fire compartmentalisation in communal areas. The removal of legacy bin chutes and inclusion of internal waste management facilities will also contribute to enhanced fire safety.
  • Resident Safety and Security: Upgraded internal and external lighting, a comprehensive review of CCTV systems, and improved access control throughout the buildings.
  • Landscape and Placemaking Improvements: The refurbishment project presents a unique opportunity to reimagine the outdoor environment surrounding both towers. Proposals include new play areas, external seating, wildflower meadows, sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS), and a full review of parking and waste facilities.

Housing, Homelessness and Fair Work Convener Lezley Marion Cameron said: “I am delighted that the proposals for the Council’s £69 million investment in Cables Wynd House and Linksview House have now been submitted to the CEC Planning Service, setting out our plans to make our residents’ homes safer, more comfortable and more energy efficient.  

“Cables Wynd and Linksview House residents have long campaigned for this much needed and substantive investment in their homes to happen.  

“Their influence and input into our consultation sessions have shaped these proposals and is hugely valued.  I look forward to continuing this positive engagement with Cables Wynd and Linksview House residents and Leith Ward Councillors as the project progresses.”

Carl Baker, Architect, Certified Passivhaus Designer – Collective Architecture said: “Collective Architecture is proud to be working with The City of Edinburgh Council on the retrofit of Cables Wynd House and Linksview House.

“Our proposals place residents at the heart of the process, aiming to provide greener, warmer homes, while celebrating and sensitively enhancing the unique character of the Category A listed buildings.

“As part of a just transition, our carefully considered interventions will improve the thermal and environmental performance of the iconic structures – boosting energy efficiency and alleviating the risk of fuel poverty.

“As with many of our projects, meaningful resident engagement has been central to the design process and will remain a key focus through the final design stage and into construction.”

Subject to planning approval, the Council will continue to engage closely with residents throughout the design and construction process, ensuring their needs remain at the heart of the project.