Disability Wales and All Wales Forum have jointly called for an extension to the current Pathways to Work consultation period. We believe that this extension is essential due to several pressing issues that hinder meaningful participation, particularly for individuals and communities in Wales.
We are deeply concerned by the lack of accessible consultation events held throughout Wales. The cancellation of planned in-person events has significantly limited opportunities for direct engagement. Although one replacement event was arranged, it was poorly publicised and announced at very short notice, just prior to the consultation’s conclusion. This raised serious concerns about the adequacy of notice provided, as well as whether feedback gathered could meaningfully inform subsequent parliamentary consideration.
Attendance at the session was low, with only around 15 individuals present. Moreover, several disabled people who arrived with the intention of participating were turned away due to limited ticketing, with no alternative options offered for their voices to be heard. Even among those aware of the event, confusion around registration meant that some participants—including representatives from our organisations—were initially unable to gain access and faced delays in being admitted. These practical barriers to participation further demonstrate the inadequacy of the consultation process as it currently stands.
We continue to advocate for an extension to the consultation period and for additional in-person events to be held in other parts of Wales to ensure that the process is genuinely inclusive and accessible.
We also echo the concerns outlined by Disabled People Against Cuts (DPAC), who have sent a joint signatory letter to Stephen Timms MP detailing the issues with the consultation events and calling for an extension. Their letter outlines important points that align with our concerns and can be accessed here: Open letter: #NoVoteWithoutWales – stop disability cuts.
We have written to the DWP urging them to extend the consultation deadline. This request has the support of the Senedd’s Equality and Social Justice Committee who have written separately to the Secretary of State echoing these concerns and is supported by Sioned Williams MS, Chair of the Cross-Party Group on Learning Disability, Mark Isherwood MS, Chair of the Cross-Party Group on Disability, and Hefin David MS.
Given the considerable accessibility barriers, the ongoing scheduling and communication issues, and the widespread anxieties articulated by disabled individuals, their families, caregivers, and elected representatives, we firmly believe that an extension is not only warranted but necessary. It is critical to ensure that this process is carried out in a lawful and inclusive manner that fully respects the rights and contributions of disabled people in Wales.
