Angela raises invisible illnesses in Westminster

Lanark and Hamilton East MP Angela Crawley last week raised a number of issues relating to the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) treatment of people with invisible illnesses.

An invisible illness is an umbrella term for any medical condition that isn’t easily visible to others. This includes chronic physical conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, fibromyalgia, and others — but also mental illnesses.

Angela highlighted her concerns that cuts to disability benefits are having a huge impact on those suffering with sometimes debilitating conditions, such as fibromyalgia and depression.

The local MP called on the Government Minister to reform the social security system so it meets the needs of people with invisible illnesses.

Commenting, Angela said:

“We need to have a shift in the way we look at disability in this country.

“We should commend the employers who are making the changes needed to help disabled people to continue in the workplace, but we also need to ensure that the people who require support are actually receiving it.

“If the true measure of a society can be found in how it treats its weakest members, right now we are coming up short.

“So, before yet another reshuffle and yet another Prime Minister, I urge the Government to make a lasting impact and improve the lives of disabled people across the country.”