Budget support must address the extra costs of sight loss

Date posted: 28th October 2026

Thomas Pocklington Trust (TPT) welcomes measures announced in the Autumn Budget to help households with living costs, but is calling for stronger assurances on the benefits and services blind and partially sighted people need to live independently.

Help with energy bills and the commitment to remove the Carer’s Allowance earnings cliff edge could ease pressure on some households. However, questions remain about support with the additional costs of sight loss, access to employment and the Government’s plans for welfare reform.

For blind and partially sighted people, costs such as taxis, assistive technology and practical support can be essential to working, attending appointments and taking part in everyday life.

Responding to the Budget Statement, Mike Bell, TPT’s Head of Public Affairs and Campaigns said:

“Help with everyday bills will be welcome for blind and partially sighted people facing difficult choices about how to spend their money. But the extra costs of living with sight loss and a disability do not disappear when a short-term payment runs out.

“People need confidence that they can afford to travel to work, use the technology they rely on and get support to live independently. The Government must explain how its plans will meet those needs.

“If ministers want more blind and partially sighted people to find and stay in work, they must address the barriers that prevent this. That includes making sure Access to Work support arrives when it is needed and that employers make recruitment and workplaces accessible.”

The proposed removal of gas standing charges also needs careful scrutiny. The Government plans to move these costs into the price charged for each unit of gas. While some households could save, those who need more heating because of a disability or health condition could face higher bills. Any changes must include effective protection for people who cannot safely reduce their energy use.

The commitment to replace the Carer’s Allowance earnings cliff edge with a taper is a positive step for eligible carers balancing paid work and caring responsibilities. Clear information about when and how this change will happen is now needed.

With further welfare proposals expected after the Timms and Milburn reviews, blind and partially sighted people also need reassurance that future reforms will recognise the real costs of sight loss and protect support for independent living.

TPT is calling on the Government to set out how it will improve Access to Work, protect people facing unavoidable additional costs and ensure services such as vision rehabilitation have the resources to help people when they need them.