A major new study into British social attitudes has revealed that public support for disability benefits remains “remarkably strong,” with only a small fraction of the population favouring cuts to welfare for those unable to work due to ill health or disability.
The 43rd British Social Attitudes (BSA) survey, published on 8 September 2026, found that just 7% of respondents believe spending on disability benefits should be reduced. In contrast, 49% of the public believe the government should increase spending in this area, even if such a move necessitated higher taxes.
The findings, produced by the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen), come at a time of significant fiscal pressure. Official forecasts suggest that annual spending on Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is set to rise from £27.3 billion in 2024/25 to £41.5 billion by 2030/31. Despite these rising costs, the consensus for maintaining or increasing support appears to bridge traditional political divides.
Cross-party consensus on welfare
The research, based on interviews with 4,656 individuals conducted in late 2025, suggests that the appetite for welfare reform focused on cost-cutting is low across the political spectrum. Only 10% of those who support the Conservative Party or Reform UK expressed a desire for lower spending on people who are unable to work because of a disability.
Dr Robert de Vries, co-author of the report, noted that the level of backing for these benefits is “remarkably strong” and has remained resilient despite a broader dip in support for general welfare spending, which has approached record lows in recent years.
Pressure on the benefits system
While public sympathy remains high, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is facing a logistical and financial challenge.
The overall trend indicates that any attempt to significantly scale back disability payments could face substantial public opposition.
