Is anyone listening

MARIA Miller MP, minister for disabled people, says the government is “absolutely committed to supporting disabled people” and listening to their concerns (Gazette letters, June 9).

But, if this is the case, it is very disappointing that she declined an invitation to speak at the recent Hardest Hit march in London – the largest gathering of disabled people for over a decade.

Twelve months ago, the coalition promised to introduce arrangements that would protect the most vulnerable and those on low incomes from the effect of public sector cuts. But research shows that far from being protected, disabled people and their families are already hundreds of millions of pounds worse off and face a further barrage of cuts in the coming years.

Overall research forecasts that disabled people face a drop in their income of more than £9billion during this Parliament. Then, in the coming years, disabled people face a raft of reforms which will have a significant impact on their quality of life.

Disabled people do not feel assured that the government is listening and do not feel assured that their needs are understood.

Yes, the minister does indeed meet with organisations involved in The Hardest Hit, like RNIB, but if she is listening, she has yet to go as far as taking action.

Michael Wilson

regional campaigns manager

Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB)