I may have already shared this. I am member of a Disabled Employees Network, in which there are obviously disabled members (wheel chairs, interpreters, guide dog assisted, etc). By and large they are in agreement that the benefits system needs an overhaul. Some of them have been in presence of those who appear to be cheating the system. Claiming higher rate mobility after climbing 3 flights of steps and carrying a cane on the arm. That sort of thing.

But I don't know if they understand hidden disabilities. For example me (still waiting for DLA application sent in December or January to go through whatever hoops). I am 6 years into rheumatoid arthritis in feet, ankles, hips, fingers, hands, wrists, shoulders and neck. Recently diagnosed vitamin D deficiency and attending fybromyalgia pain all over especially in the long bones. I have good moments where I am seemingly AOK. I have horrible weeks/months when my husband has to help me with everything from brushing my hair to putting on my socks and shoes. According to the PIP assessment, I would qualify for lower rate DLA and no mobility, yet most days I cannot walk more than 40 meters.
Enter the ATOS assessor who asks me weird side blinder questions like, "What is your favorite pass time?" I say "live music sessions." Assessor says "do you perform?" I say "I can play some instruments badly and I can sing." This can (and probably will) be construed by the assessor as ability to sit for long periods, ability to concentrate and remember learned material, ability to hold and use a pen. You get my meaning.

I am fortunate in so many ways to have a job. Not the least that it keep my mind off the pain better than any medicine does. But I do need and am entitled to DLA to help me continue to work and to allow me to access something approaching a normal life. I won't moan too much if I don't get it. There are far too many people who need it more than I do. What steams me is even the legitimately ill and disabled are being denied. Some of them are committing suicide in despair. And that is a thing that should not happen in a civilised country.

This inhuman glee at another's misfortune does not look well on anyone. Sadly the current government and the media are promoting and inflaming a public hatred of the vulnerable. Whatever next? Ancient practice of exposing the sick and disabled on a rubbish heap?