Benefit changes hit 200 people a month

NEW figures have revealed that almost 200 disabled residents in Edinburgh are to come off disability living allowance (DLA) every month in changes to the benefits system.

From October this year, the 15,820 DLA recipients will begin to be transferred to
the personal independence payment (PIP).

A report released by Edinburgh City Council estimated that 23 per cent would no longer qualify and that the phased changes from the Westminster government will affect 180 per month.

Some 70 new disabled claimants per month will also not qualify for the new benefit, according to estimates.

Local authorities across Scotland are investing more in advice centre services to handle queries on the changes.

However, the report also highlighted the fact that at present there is a 76 per cent success rate for appeals, which means many of those who challenge their case are likely to retain their benefits.