Why Sunak's benefit cuts and crackdown on 'sick note culture' harms children like my daughter

Recently, prime minister Rishi Sunak proposed a plan to crackdown on sick notes and disability benefits. Calling it “sick note culture” is a judgemental announcement made in a very insensitive way. Generalising people is not a suitable approach for a person responsible for making policies.  

Politicians and policy makers are a very important part of any nation, as they have the power to make strategic decisions and formulate policies to support citizens accordingly. It’s unfortunate that the prime minister fails to recognise that, for people living on low incomes or who are struggling financially, the cost of living remains a real barrier. Does he not know how people on low income backgrounds remain unheard, remain on waiting lists for years, without adequate support, and it can lead to long-term harm?  

My daughter suffers on a daily basis. She, like many children who are suffering with mental health issues, remained unheard because of long waiting lists. When her school managed to arrange some support, it made a massive difference on her learning and achievements. I was so appreciative.  

Unfortunately we are back at square one, having to change schools because of a house move and the recent school refused any support. They told us there are not enough funds and services available to meet her mental health needs. I couldn’t protest as we are left with no options.  

• Sunak’s call to end ‘sick note culture’ and reform benefits is ‘demonising’ disabled and sick people
• DWP disability benefit cuts will impact 450,000 people – but very few will actually find paid work

The NHS is massively underfunded and overwhelmed staff are not to be blamed: is it not the duty of the government to provide quality healthcare and accessible services to our younger generation for the prosperity of our future?  

The healthcare system and social security should be interlinked. A lot of unwell people are not getting the right financial support because they are not aware of what they are entitled to following a diagnosis or disability.  

In my own experience, claiming benefits because of my health was a difficult process. Filling in long complicated forms, accessing and providing the relevant documentation, and agents who made judgmental and insensitive remarks. I hate going to the Jobcentre as it feels like a punishment.  

The health system is not as straightforward and supportive as it’s being portrayed in the media. The prime minister’s proposal further stigmatises mental health. As a sufferer of chronic anxiety and depression I can tell you that there is a massive difference between feeling sad and having panic attacks. Feeling anxious is not the same as anxiety disorder because you are not able to function properly. My social anxiety gives me physical symptoms and I have to take medication every time I need to go out. 

I agree, for some it can be beneficial to start work for the betterment of depression but if the workplace can not do much to accommodate the needs of the individuals then it is better for them to be signed off for a while, to get better.  

I would like to ask, why is there a rapid increase in disability and mental health problems? Why are people suffering and going without basic necessities in this day and age?  

The prime minister should make policies to actually help people in the long run. Making a safer environment, tackling poverty, and reducing discrimination, can drastically improve mental health. A safety net in the time of crisis is necessary.  

Izzy G takes part in the ​​Changing Realities project, working with more than 100 parents and carers across the UK and the University of York to document life on a low-income and push for change. 

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