Lorraine and Sarah are a mother and daughter who have been affected by government spending cuts to disability benefits in the UK. After a life-changing accident in 2009, Sarah had half of her brain removed and now suffers from memory loss, concentration problems, and issues with her mood. As a result, Sarah is unable to work and has turned to the government for assistance. She is having to apply for Job Seeker’s Allowance (JSA) because the government has deemed her ineligible for disability benefits. Her mother, Lorraine, has become her full-time carer. In between juggling her increased caring responsibilities for her daughter and the care work for the rest of her household, she is not able to hold a formal job and also receives government assistance. However, the assistance they are receiving is neither adequate nor sufficient to meet their needs.

Women Speak Out