Budget Announcement Brings Mixed News for Blind and Partially Sighted People

Date posted: 26th November 2025

This afternoon, the Government outlined a series of Budget measures that will affect living costs and public services in the years ahead. We have reviewed the plans and identified the key points for blind and partially sighted people.

Higher Tax Pressures

Income tax and National Insurance thresholds will remain frozen for an extra three years. As wages rise, more people will move into higher tax bands, reducing take-home pay. This will add pressure for many who already face extra disability-related costs.

Support for Households

From April, the two-child limit in Universal Credit and Child Tax Credit will be removed, a change that will benefit larger families, including those with disabled children or disabled parents.

The minimum wage will increase across all age groups, and the state pension will rise by 4.8 percent. Most benefits, including Personal Independence Payment, Attendance Allowance, Disability Living Allowance and Carer’s Allowance, will rise by 3.8 percent in line with inflation.

The Help to Save scheme will continue for people on Universal Credit.

The Eco energy scheme is being scrapped, which is expected to reduce average household energy bills by £150 from April 2026.

Transport and Everyday Costs

A new mileage-based tax for electric vehicles will begin in 2028. As many blind and partially sighted people rely on family members or carers who drive, higher running costs could affect mobility.

Rail fares in England will be frozen next year, fuel duty will remain frozen, and prescription charges will stay at £9.90 for another year.

Economic Outlook

The UK economy is forecast to grow slightly faster than expected, but long-term growth remains modest. This may continue to put pressure on the public services that blind and partially sighted people rely on.

This summary reflects our immediate response to the Budget. We are continuing to analyse the full implications for blind and partially sighted people and will provide further updates as policies evolve and more detail is released.