Huppert’s Victory In Fight To Save Mobility Allowance For Disabled

MP Julian Huppert is celebrating victory after Cambridge people living in residential care have been told they will still be able to keep the benefits that allow them to get out and about.

Julian has fought to save the Mobility Allowance, a component of the Disabled Living Allowance, which allows disabled people to pay for taxis and other transport.

He called on Minister for Work and Pensions, Iain Duncan Smith and Minister for Disabled People, Maria Miller to rethink moves by the government to take away the benefits in 2014/15.

Julian had been contacted by a number of constituents who were concerned that the changes would seriously affect family members living in residential care who needed transport to attend social events and other activities.

He said: “I am delighted that the government has changed its mind on this issue. Taking away this benefit could have had a serious impact on some of Cambridge’s most vulnerable residents.

“The Mobility Allowance is a lifeline for disabled people and without it many could be confined to home with no opportunity to socialise or enjoy any independence. “

Young People Would Get Free Transport Under £80,000 Scheme

Young people looking for education, training or employment would be entitled to free transport under an £80,000 scheme proposed by Cambridgeshire Liberal Democrats.

The scheme would be run by Cambridgeshire County Council Locality Teams and would cover all forms of public transport.

Cllr van de Ven

Liberal Democrat Shadow Cabinet Member for Transport, Susan van de Ven said, “Young people face unprecedented pressures, and the prohibitive cost of transport can be a blockade to opportunity.

“It is unfortunate that the county council not only fails to provide supported transport for young people in this situation, but is actually planning to cut 100 per cent of subsidised bus services.

“Our modest proposal would ensure that every young person seeking education, training and employment would be given a helping hand with making that first step.

"We believe that the principle of wider access to public transport for young people should be developed much further.”

The proposal has been inspired by the train operating company First Capital Connect, which is currently working with the Department for Work and Pensions on a scheme to allow people on Job Seeker’s Allowance free travel to job interviews and forthe first month of employment, when arranged through Job Centre Plus.

Councillor van de Ven added: “In rural areas, some parish councils and community transport providers are already supporting very localised transport schemes for young people. The county council should be playing a leading role in facilitating access and mobility for young people who need it most.”