72% of disabled households plunged into debt by cost-of-living crisis – poll

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Keith Butler, whose 21-year-old son Geordie is deafblind, autistic and has CHARGE syndrome, said the grant would help but warned “long-term” support was needed ahead of higher energy prices expected in autumn. “We put the same amount into an account each month for utility bills, but in September when the energy price cap rises, this will drain away.” Chief executive of Sense Richard Kramer warned of the “desperate everyday reality” disabled households forced to choose between eating and heating their homes. “It must also include expanding the Warm Home Discount Scheme to more disabled people.” Eight million low-income households will also be receiving at least £1,200 of direct payments this year. We urge people to check they are getting all the help to which they are entitled Department for Work and Pensions spokesperson A Department for Work and Pensions spokesperson said: “We understand how difficult current pressures are for people with disabilities and their carers, that is why we have put a strong financial support system in place including personal independence payment, Universal Credit and carer’s allowance for the millions affected.