Affinity Trust Supports Campaign for Accessible Benefits System

Affinity Trust is proud to stand alongside United Response and over 30 other organisations in calling on the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to prioritise accessibility in the design and delivery of its services.

In a joint letter, coordinated by United Response, the coalition urges the DWP to ensure that accessibility is not treated as an afterthought in the benefits system, but as a fundamental right for disabled people.

Too often, people with learning disabilities, autism, and other support needs face significant barriers when navigating the benefits system. Whether it's difficulty accessing forms in easy-read format, long delays in communication, or the challenge of attending assessments without the right support, the current system can feel overwhelming and exclusionary.

At Affinity Trust, we support nearly 1,000 people across England and Scotland. We see first-hand the impact that a complicated and inaccessible benefits process can have on people’s mental health, independence, and overall wellbeing.

We believe in a society where everyone is included and supported to thrive. That means designing public services that are truly accessible to all – including the benefits system.

We echo the joint letter’s call for:

• The co-production of accessible communication methods, including easy read and British Sign Language
• More staff training and understanding of a wide range of disabilities and support needs
• Clear standards and timelines for accessible communications
• Ensuring digital transformation doesn’t leave people behind

This is not just about policy – it's about people. And it's time for change.

Read the full joint letter here: https://www.unitedresponse.org.uk/news-item/joint-letter-to-department-of-work-and-pensions-accessibility-should-not-be-an-afterthought