11 November 2013 Independent Living Fund to be re examined by Ministers

Trailblazers are pleased to share the news about the Independent Living Fund (ILF) being reviewed by Ministers. 

The Independent Living fund is a ring-fenced central government scheme which has a budget of £320million. It currently provides support for 19000 disabled people living in the UK to live independent active lives including a number of Trailblazers from across the UK.

Last year the Government decided to abolish the ILF and leave the responsibility to Local Authorities. However, last week the Court Of Appeal overturned a decision by the High Court which previously ruled it was ok for the Government to abolish it. The reasons cited for the successful appeal were due to not enough consideration being given to the Equality Act, which included 'the need to promote equality of opportunity for disabled people, and to encourage them to take part in a public life.'

Tanvi Vyas, Trailblazers Project Manager said:

We are delighted that the Government are not appealing this decision and will be reviewing it's future based on further advice. However we would urge the Government to secure the future of the ILF as it is a lifeline for many disabled people who lead active independent lives.Many other disabled people could benefit from this, and the fact that future applications have closed is to the detriment of many disabled people who want to lead fulfilling independent lives.

Trailblazers Ambassador Lauren West said:

This decision is huge for me. ILF funds all my overnight care and means I get 24hour care. Without this money there is no way I would be able to live the independent life I do now, which includes working full time and doing a phd and of course having a social life!

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