Digital Meet Ups
Listing of webinars, meetings and discussions with Citizen Network members, the Centre for Welfare and other partners.
News
Sign the #BuildBackBetter statement
Over 350 civil society organisations have already responded to the call from Compass and NEF to shape a better future.
#RecoveryCoalition Launch
The People's Powerhouse believe that more voices need to be heard in the debate about our recovery from COVID-19 - complete their survey.
No Labels No Walls + We Are One Festival 2020
The 2nd annual Festival will take place between 14-19th September and invites citizens from all around the world to connect through Art, Culture and Action.
1 June: Is basic income essential to the good life?
A virtual event hosted by the Centre for Wellbeing in Public Policy (CWiPP) at The University of Sheffield, as part of the Festival of Debate.
Defend Children's Rights in Care
Article 39 are threatening legal action if the Department for Education does not withdraw a statutory instrument that removes safeguards for children in care in England.
Self-Directed Support in Europe
The SDS Network is offering three free webinars on 7th May and 11th June to explore global developments in self-directed support.
Scrap health surcharge for NHS workers from overseas
Foreign health workers are risking their lives to save ours and paying for the privilege, this must stop - sign the petition.
Human Rights and COVID-19
There are a number of serious concerns about the human rights implications of Government policy in response to the COVID-19 crisis.
COVID-19
Here are details of how the Centre for Welfare Reform is taking action in response to the COVID-19 crisis and some useful information.
Festival of Debate announces 2020 programme
The biggest politics festival in the UK returns to South Yorkshire on 14 April running until the end of May.
Health Equity in England
A new report by the Institute of Health Equity, commissioned by the Health Foundation to mark 10 years since the landmark study Fair Society, Healthy Lives.
Understanding Benefits and Mental Health
New research by The Salvation Army indicates that millions of people risk being unable to access their benefits due to faults in the Universal Credit system.
22 May: The Power of Citizenship
A conference in Sheffield organised by the Centre for Welfare Reform and Citizen Network as part of Opus Independents' Festival of Debate, tickets on sale now.
Will Labour change the game?
Gavin Barker outlines an emerging strategy for Labour members to put PR and Constitutional Reform on the agenda.
Person-Centred Care and Care Integration
A call for papers for a Special Issue from the Journal of Integrated Care.
14 February: UKSCN Climate Strike
Join the UK Student Climate Network (UKSCN) as they demonstrate around the country.
Lib Dems support UBI Pilot in Hull
Liberal Democrats in Hull call on Government to consider piloting Universal Basic Income in the City.
CitizenFest 2020
Save the date for the next ‘We are One’, Glasgow’s Festival of Citizenship on 12 September 2020. Find out more now.
PFG Doncaster win more awards
PFG Doncaster have won 2 categories at the Doncaster Business Awards for their amazing peer support work.
Community groups welcome plans to pilot UBI
An open letter from a range of community groups has been published welcoming the growing support for UBI by several political parties.
Bedroom Tax breaches Human Rights
The Supreme Court ruling means that Councils and Tribunals can ignore Bedroom Tax on Human Rights grounds.
Stark evidence of human rights abuse
Joint Committee on Human Rights publishes its second report on the abuse of human rights of children and adults with disabilities and/or autism.
UK General Election 2019
Date set for 12 December 2019 - the Centre for Welfare Reform supports all those who want to advance democracy, justice, peace and protect the natural world.
Second Class Citizens out now
The Centre has published a major new book which provides an authoritative overview of how the UK Government's austerity policies have targeted sick and disabled people.
Labour Party backs calls for social care reform
The 2019 Labour Party Conference has passed a resolution which calls for a universal and free social care system.
Guerilla news in your pocket
Now Then is leading the way in providing an alternative platform for local and national news as publications from across the UK share their content on the Now Then App.
How to Fully Fund Social Care
On behalf of the Reclaim Social Care campaign Simon Duffy and Gordon Peters have developed a report outlining how and why we must fully fund social care.
12 September: Fixing the Social Care system
Join Yorkshire Socialist Health Association to explore ‘How to Fully Fund Social Care’ - a report by the Centre for Welfare Reform.
Join Penzance Citizens Panel
Cornwall Independent Poverty Forum are looking for people to be part of a 15 member Citizens Panel.
It's Our City update
Sheffield People's Petition to change the way Sheffield Council works has amassed over 21,500 signatures.
16 September: Self-Directed Support in Europe
A one-day conference to explore the state of self-directed support in Europe and strategies to encourage further progress.
Sheffield backs basic income pilot
Sheffield City Council is backing a basic income pilot in the event of a Labour Government.
27 July: Campaign for a Yorkshire Parliament
Join the Campaign's launch event in York for a devolved parliament for Yorkshire.
Survey on Universal Credit
Unite the union is examining the impact of Universal Credit on working people and people not in work.
UK breaches human rights
UN Special Rapporteur Philip Alston has published a final report on poverty in the UK, concluding that the UK government is in a state of denial.
Global survey on a good welfare system
Complete the Citizen Network global survey to let people know what you think a good welfare system should be like.
Labour Party welcomes report on basic income
Dr Guy Standing has produced a report for Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell setting out the case for piloting basic income
Will the Labour Party support Basic Income?
An opportunity to hear from one of the leading thinkers on basic income Guy Standing, at this year's Festival of Debate in Sheffield.
Parliamentary hearings on institutional abuse
The Joint Committee on Human Rights is investigating the unnecessary institutionalisation of children with learning disabilities or autism.
9-10 August: We Are One
Save the date and join us in celebrating the wonderful diversity of human life at CitizenFest Glasgow 2019.
Endorse Basic Income
Endorse Basic Income UK's statement supporting the principle of a Basic Income for the UK to make it a key campaign issue in the next General Election.
2019: Festival of Debate
Tickets are on sale now for this year's Festival from April through to June in Sheffield, UK.
May 2019: #MillionsMissing
This year's #MillionsMissing will take place from 5 to 12 May. Save the dates and join in!
Welfare Reform - call for evidence
What impact has the Welfare Reform & Work Act (2016) had on the levels of poverty, inequality and health experienced by children and disabled people in the UK?
Labour listens to disability campaigners
The Labour Party is moving from opposing austerity and welfare reform towards identifying new policies for benefits and disability.
Developing a political platform for spoonies
Spooniehacker interviews Catherine Hale who leads the Chronic Illness Inclusion Project.
24 January: #MEdebate in House of Commons
MPs from all Parties will be debating a motion on ME put forward by Carol Monaghan MP.
14 March: Campaigning, politics and self-advocacy
Simon Cramp will talk about his work and life, drawing from his new book ‘Don't Cramp My Style’ at The University of Sheffield.
9 March: Basic Income in the North
An event in Sheffield for activists, researchers and everyone interested in making basic income happen.
Subscribe to the Centre's newsletter
Discover the new ideas, resources and opinions we share in our regular newsletter.
Universal Credit is a bad policy
Dr Simon Duffy outlines why Universal Credit is not good 'in principle' but that it is damaging and dangerous.
Cumulative Impact Assessment debate
Thanks to the WOW Campaign Parliament debated the need for a Cumulative Impact Assessment in the House of Commons.
2019: Café Economique
A range of discussions in Leeds in 2019 on the new economics we need for the 21st Century.
UK Government is in denial
UN Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights publishes statement following his visit.
Is Britain Fairer? 2018
Comprehensive report by EHRC warns that at-risk groups are in danger of being forgotten and becoming trapped in disadvantage.
Progress on disability rights in the United Kingdom
Update on steps taken by UK governments to act on recommendations from the CRPD to improve the lives of disabled people in the UK.
WOW Campaign secures debate in House of Commons
The debate will discuss the urgent need for a cumulative impact assessment of all cuts to disability support.
10 November: Campaign for a Yorkshire Parliament
An inaugural meeting for people to meet, exchange ideas and contribute to the future vision of the campaign.
17 November: Reclaim Social Care
How do we reverse privatisation and secure quality, stable, publicly funded and accountable social care services for all?
11 October: Unelected Oligarchy
Think tanks have shaped policy and public opinion in Britain for decades; but what are they? The Festival of Politics in Edinburgh.
Patient passport launched
Simon Cramp has developed a patient passport with Chesterfield Royal Hospital for patients who find communicating with clinical staff difficult.
Les Monaghan at Brighton Photo Fringe
Les Monaghan has been selected as this year's Brighton Photo Fringe OPEN18 Participate artist for his project ‘We Are All Connected’.
11 September: Conversations on Governance
It's Our City is holding a series of community conversations about local governance in Sheffield during 2018/19.
Mapping SDS around the world
Take part in the SKILLS survey to map international progress on self-directed support.
What's the impact of chronic illness in the UK today
The Chronic Illness Inclusion Project launches major survey to capture the experiences & views of people living with chronic illness.
Share your austerity stories
WOW Voices are documenting the impact of austerity on the people behind the numbers in a bid to challenge Government policy.
UN to investigate extreme poverty in the UK
United Nations investigator to probe the impact of Tory austerity policies in Britain, in the UN's first visit to a western European country in more than five years.
Ride for Equality and the Common Good
A group of Quakers are riding to Downing Street from Cumbria to give witness to their concern about the dismantling of the welfare state.
Parliamentary debate on ME secured
Westminster Hall Debate on Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) treatment and research set for Thursday 21st June.
Making Poverty Visible
For those who dismiss empirical research Les Monaghan's Relative Poverty photography work bears witness to lives lived in poverty.
Welfare conditionality causes more harm than good
The WelCond project, led by the University of York and colleagues, found that welfare conditionality causes more harm than good.
Disabled people facing government hostility
Letter published in The Guardian protesting at the failure of the media to cover the on-going attacks on disabled and older people in the UK.
Publication of Report on Constituency Changes
This report shows how Boundary Commission England's planned changes will worsen inequities of UK electoral system.
The Balance of Rights
A new Anton French Film exploring the challenges faced by people with learning disabilities in the UK today.
Report on how to reform social care published
Robin Jackson's report explains why health and social care integration is poor policy and offers instead a practical vision for reform.
Guide published on what makes us healthy
This guide from The Health Foundation gives helpful information and practical advice on tackling the social determinants of health.
Festival of Debate: April to June 2018
Sheffield's Festival of Debate is one of the largest political festivals in the UK, with 75 debates, including several in partnership with the Centre.
Personal Health Budget survey
NHS England invite you to share your experience of the care and support you receive in a new survey on PHBs.
Liberal Democrats back call for Citizen Convention
Tom Brake MP has written to the Centre to back the call for a Citizen Convention on Constitutional Reform.
Local Green Party support for Citizen Convention
Mid & East Cornwall Green Party and West Cornwall Green Party set out their reasons for backing constitutional and democratic reform.
Guidance on Individual Service Funds (ISFs) published
The Centre has produced a range of new publications on ISFs with TLAP, Community Catalysts and In Control Scotland.
Leader of Party for Cornwall responds
Dick Cole, Leader of the Party for Cornwall has written to the Centre expressing his personal support for the Constitutional Reform campaign.
Beyond Direct Payments published
The Centre has helped develop a range of resources to help change commissioning and improve social care.
SNP add their support to Citizen Convention
Ian Blackford MP has written to the Centre for Welfare Reform to express support for the growing movement for constitutional reform.
Plaid Cymru and Green Party back call for constitutional reform
Leaders from Plaid Cymru and the Green Party have expressed support for the idea of citizens convention to develop a new constitution for the UK.
Joint inquiry launched on long-term funding of adult social care
The Communities & Local Government and Health Committees launch joint inquiry on the long-term funding and provision of adult social care.
Open Letter on Constitutional Reform published
The Centre for Welfare Reform with an alliance of campaigners and leading thinkers is calling for radical constitutional change to underpin social justice.
Repeal Bill Alliance has been formed
The Alliance has been formed to ensure that rights and protections are kept in place as the UK leaves the EU to protect people and the environment
It's time to radically reform social care
Jim Elder-Woodward writes for The Herald on why disabled people should be entitled to a clear national entitlement to self-directed support.
Why patients with ME are demanding justice
The Independent newspaper reports on the background to the growing movement for justice for people with ME.
Letter to Sarah Newton, Minister for Disabled People
Researcher ask why Government continues to insist on the use of the discredited Work Capability Assessment (WCA)
The UK Government makes the UK even more unfair
A detailed analysis looking at back at the last 7 years of Government policy demonstrates its unfairness
A New Way Home is published
Ground-breaking guide now published to ensure people leave institutional care directly into a life of citizenship.
Carl Poll Scholarship established
The Centre is pleased to announce a new grant programme to grow the work of Manavodaya internationally.
Don't Cramp My Style on sale now
Simon Cramp's inspirational biography of his Campaigning Life is available to purchase in paperback.
Government policy is killing people
Latest research published by the BMJ links austerity policies in the UK, particularly severe cuts to social care, with increasing death rates.
Progress on Personalised Support published
An international survey on personalised support shows idea is spreading, but commissioning lags behind.
Serious concerns about 'Opportunity for All'
Mo Stewart has written to Shaw Trust expressing concern about their recent report on employment for disabled people.
Heading Upstream published
Major report outlining Barnsley's success in promoting social justice through citizen and community action.
Social Rights Are Human Rights published
Professor Paul Hunt's report argues that the UK has ignored social rights, but now is the time to make them central to progressive change.
Petition: human rights for disabled people
A petition to appoint a cabinet minister and stand up for our human rights.
United Nations condemns UK Government
The UN has criticised the UK for failing to protect disabled peoples' rights.
What's the role of civil society?
An independent inquiry has been launched into the future of civil society and it's seeking your views.
#TimeforUnrest
A campaign to fuel the growing movement for more recognition, education, research & funding for ME.
Learning Disability England takes shape
LDE elects Representative Body comprising people with learning disabilities, family members, friends, professionals and organisations.
The making of the PACE scandal
A Special Issue of the Journal of Health Psychology is to be published to explore the scandalous PACE Trial.
Letter to Minister for Disabled People
Mo Stewart sets out the harm caused to sick and disabled people by the government's welfare policies.
Back to Bedlam published
Robin Jackson's report outlines the severe crisis for people with a learning disability caused by government policy.
Self-directed support in Scotland
The Herald in Scotland has reported concerns that Scotland's legislation on self-directed support is not bringing benefits to all the groups it should.
Civil disobedience by Rev Paul Nicolson
Rev. Nicolson is refusing to pay his Council Tax in solidarity with all those harmed by government's attack on the incomes and health of the poorest in Britain.
12th September: Basic Income book launch
Join Basic Income UK and the Centre for Welfare Reform at the launch of Malcolm Torry's new book Citizen's Basic Income a Christian Social Policy.
10th June: Relative Poverty exhibition
Les Monaghan's powerful photographic exhibition revealing the reality of poverty in modern Britain comes to Sheffield.
Disability activists say vote Labour
In a letter to The Guardian, leading disability activists and their allies urge people to vote for Labour in the General Election 2017.
Open Letter to Damian Green on welfare reform
From Ekklesia and the Centre for Welfare Reform to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions setting out their concerns about the system of social security in the UK.
28th April: Relative Poverty Exhibition
Les Monaghan's powerful photographic exhibition revealing the reality of poverty in modern Britain starts in Doncaster.
26th June: Monetary reform for fairness?
A Festival of Debate event in Sheffield, speakers will put forward their ideas on how to create a better, stronger and fairer economy.
1st June: Basic Income for Sheffield?
A Festival of Debate event, this meeting is part of a project to make UBI a reality for the people of Sheffield, tackling injustice and advancing citizenship.
Open Letter to Prime Minister opposing ESA cut
Ekklesia, backed by the Centre for Welfare Reform, have published an Open Letter to the UK Prime Minister opposing the further cut in incomes to disabled people.
Call for retraction of PACE publication
Open Letter to Psychological Medicine calls for retraction of publication of improper research of PACE trial.
Spartacus responds to Green Paper
The latest Spartacus Network report reviews the Government's plans to reform ESA and the Work programme. They find the same failed policies are largely repeated.
UK Government rejects UN criticisms
The UK Government appears to have rejected the severe criticisms of the United Nations for the way in which its austerity policies have targeted disadvantaged groups.
NCIA Witness Seminar 10 March 2017
An invitation from the National Coalition for Independent Action (NCIA) to a Witness Seminar in London on 10th March.
Why CQC fails to regulate care correctly
The Centre's latest discussion paper written by John Burton outlines the systemic failures of the CGC regulatory system for care homes and offers suggestions for its reform.
A future for post-industrial communities? 23-24 March
A two-day conference co-hosted by the national campaigning organisation HOPE not hate and Leeds University’s Centre for Employment Relations Innovation and Change…
People with mental health problems detained without representation
Currently 50% detained under the Mental Health Act in England - 25,000 per year - are not getting an independent MHA advocate. This petition calls for action and reform of the…
Select Committees call for action on social care
The Chairs of three House of Commons Select Committees are urging the Prime Minister to reach a cross-party agreement on the future of health and social care funding in a letter…
UN report reveals UK's shameful record
The UN has reported the the UK is failing to meet its international obligations to respect the rights of disabled people.
Consultation on WCA announced
The DWP and DH have announced their intention to review the current failing systems for supporting disabled people and people with long-term health conditions into work.
Join the Board of Imagineer
Imagineer seeks Board members to help them develop their work to...
Help stop Graded Exercise Trials
Graded exercise therapy causes serious harm, please sign the petition at Parliament UK.
Nudge Unit finds Welfare Conditionality is flawed
The government's Nudge Unit has found that the Welfare Conditionality policy promoted by Government is counter-productive.
Troubled Families Programme in trouble
NIESR evaluation finds that there is no evidence Troubled Families Programme had any significant impact on key objectives,
Welfare reforms save less than expected
Welfare Trends report published by the Office of Budget Responsibility.
Official adult social care statistics released
NHS Digital has published three reports which include the latest statistics on the safeguarding and care of vulnerable adults in England.
Putting the heart back into social care - 10 November
Reframing the welfare state - a one day conference for policy makers, innovators and community leaders in London on 10th November 2016.
Inquiry: the human rights implications of Brexit
The Joint Committee on Human Rights is launching an inquiry into the human rights implications of Brexit. Deadline 10th October 2016.
UK workshop on Australia's NDIS
What’s New Down Under for People with Learning Disabilities? The workshop will include discussion about how the experiences of self-advocates, their families and their…
Centre for Welfare Reform moves office
The Centre for Welfare Reform has moved its office, find out more.
Major breakthrough on PACE trial
There's been a major breakthrough on PACE trial as the courts force Queen Mary University of London to release data from questionable research.
Are we giving children in Care the right support?
Support this call to ensure that children entering the care system are routinely given robust assessments to detect Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia and other similar…
What is the psychological impact of disability cuts?
Jessica Saffer is exploring the psychological impact of disability benefit cuts and seeking people to interview as part of her research.
Resist the rise of Welfare Cards
Two petitions have been launched to oppose Government plans to develop Welfare Cards to replace benefits paid in cash.
UK Supreme Court rejects Scotland's Named Person scheme
The UK Supreme Court has rejected the Scottish Government's proposal to give every child a Named Person as an interference in the rights of the family.
The changing face of UK poverty
The latest report by the Institute for Fiscal Studies underlines that Government policy is increasing poverty for families and those in work.
Tell National Audit Office of benefit sanction harm
NAO benefit sanctions study call for evidence by Autumn 2016.
UK in breach of international human rights
The UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights has expressed “serious concern” about the impact of regressive policies on the enjoyment of economic and…
Is Named Person scheme paternalistic?
Robin Jackson reviews the arguments for the Named Person Scheme in Scotland and argues that the scheme will be wasteful and paternalistic
Radical thinking on Learning Disability - 2 September 2016
Liverpool Hope University bring together people with learning disabilities, families, academics and activists in a stimulating one day conference.
Learning Disability England launched
Learning Disability England launched
Adult Social Care inquiry launched
The Communities and Local Government (CLG) Committee has launched an inquiry into the financial sustainability of local authority adult social care and the quality of care…
Compass publish basic income report
Compass the leading membership organisation for progressive change in the United Kingdom have published an important report making the case for basic income.
Personalised Support Survey deadline 30 June 2016
If you're a service provider working to support people to lead lives as full and active citizens, included in their communities, we need your help.
Ireland poised to embrace Personal Budgets
The Irish Times reports that the Minister of State for Disabilities Finian McGrath is keen to establish a taskforce to look at the provision of personal budgets for people with…
Mothers' experiences of child protection - 27 June 2016
Mothers from the Mothers Apart Project run by WomenCentre in Kirklees will talk about their work at this event from BASCPAN in Leeds on 27 June 2016.
Citizenship and the Welfare State - 15 June 2016
Simon Duffy, director of the Centre for Welfare Reform will talk about this at a think tank hosted by Birmingham City Council on 15 June.
Defending human rights in the UK
full time Policy, Research and Training Officer to work with them to advance economic and social rights in the UK.
Negative impact of welfare conditionality
University of York publishes the first wave of finding from their Welfare Conditionality project.
Social History of Learning Disability Conference
Social History of Learning Disability Conference in July 2016 - Exploring Learning Disability: Why history?
Learning Disability England gets backing
Learning Disability England consultation - results published by People First England and the Housing and Support Alliance.
Disability research funding now available
Call for applications from Disability Research on Independent Living and Learning (DRILL) - proposals by 27th July 2016.
Fellow speaks out on No Go Britain debate
Gary Bourlet of People First England interviewed on Channel 4 News for No Go Britain debate.
Share our Personalised Support Survey 2016
Personalised Support Survey 2016 - If you're a service provider working to support people to lead lives as full and active citizens, included in their communities, we need your…
Misleading medical research underpins disability cuts
A new report from the Centre for Welfare Reform explains how a current scientific controversy relates to the debate surrounding welfare reform and cuts to disability benefits.
Centre seeks Parliamentary Inquiry on Social Care
The Centre for Welfare Reform and its allies are recommending the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health launches an inquiry into social care in the UK.
Christians call for DWP to end attacks on disabled people
In a joint letter from Ekklesia and the Centre for Welfare Reform leading Christians ask Stephen Crabb to reverse the policies introduced by Iain Duncan Smith.
Iain Duncan Smith resigns over disability cuts
NEWS: Iain Duncan Smith resigns following further disability cuts announced in 2016 Budget.
SCLD and RSA Scotland offer 6 new Fellowships
The Scottish Commission for Learning Disability and RSA Scotland have 6 Fellowships available for people with learning disabilities in Scotland.
Fellow wins best employer award
Nadia Clarke a fellow of the Centre wins a Skills for Care Accolade award for best employer.
Submission to LibDem welfare policy
Liberal Democrat Consultation Paper 123: Working-Age Social Security
International SDS conference in New Zealand
A call for papers for Building Momentum 16 - 17 November 2016 in Auckland, New Zealand.
NAWRA Mandatory Reconsideration Survey
NAWRA have requested assistance in making a submission to the UK Parliament's Social Security Committee on mandatory reconsideration.
Join in BBC TWO debate on pay - Spring 2016
BBC TWO audience members sought for Spring 2016, to discuss whether Britain needs a pay rise.
National Brokerage Symposium - 14th March 2016
The National Brokerage Symposium is taking place in Stirling on 14th March.
Replace ESA with Basic Income Plus
Dr Simon Duffy writes for the Huffington Post UK outlining the case for abandoning ESA and replacing it with Basic Income Plus.
Local Area Coordination's Outcomes
New research report on Local Area Coordination: Catalyst for a System Wide Prevention Approach.
Learning Disability Commissioner proposed
In the report 'Time for Change - The Challenge Ahead' by Sir Stephen Bubb, CEO at ACEVO.
The case for upfront budgets
In Control Scotland argues that resource allocation systems are a vital part of any genuine system of self-directed support.
Plans to cut ESA by £30 a week defeated
Plans to cut Employment Support Allowance (ESA) by £30 a week have been defeated in the House of Lords.
Fellow becomes Vice-Chair of NHS Alliance
Brian Fisher a Fellow of the Centre has been elected vice chair of the NHS Alliance.
Bedroom Tax 'discriminatory' & 'unlawful'
Court of Appeal Judges have deemed the Bedroom Tax both 'discriminatory' and 'unlawful'.
Latest update on Local Area Coordination
Local Area Coordination Network's (England and Wales) Winter 2015/16 newsletter published.
Disabled and pregnant
Kaliya Franklin was interviewed by BBC Ouch on the experience of being disabled and pregnant.
The impact of living with chronic illness
Catherine Hale was interviewed for Woman's Hour on BBC Radio 4 about her experience of living with chronic illness.
Inspirational Lecture in Glasgow - 18 February 2016
SCIF and the Sherpa Union host this lecture and film with Mark McGowan on Thursday 18th February 2016.
A Modern Hospital explores our institutional past
Disabled researchers, the Finding Out Group, supported by leading academic Jan Walmsley look back at the experiences of staff and patients at one of last institutions for people…
Government disability policy increases suicide rate
New academic research published in Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health shows link between UK Government's harsh disability assessment system (WCA) and increases…
Finding Your Way - 30 January 2016
Bringing Us Together are delighted to announce their first Conference, in collaboration with Care Management Group.
Help a deaf candidate stand for Parliament
Simeon is standing for Parliament at the Oldham By-election. Simeon is deaf and uses 'Sign' as his first language. He will need an interpreter to help communicator with many of…
What can we learn about inclusion from Camphill?
A discussion paper by Maria Lyons asks whether we are really taking the goals of citizenship and inclusion seriously
Friendship - a practical guide published
A new best practice guide to help people build friendships and find love has been published by the Centre for Welfare Reform.
Churches say "Enough is Enough"
Major UK Churches are warning that the Government’s Welfare Reform and Work Bill marks a dangerous shift away from a core principle of the Welfare State and will make poor…
Join the Campaign to Save Adult Education
WEA is leading a campaign to make the case for adult education and to give adult learners a voice, please sign their petition.
Help reform the Work Capability Assessment
Stef Benstead and Ekklesia are running this survey and invite you to participate.
What do the different kinds of fraud tell us?
The Centre would be interested to publish any research on the different kinds of tax or benefit fraud and what we can learn from any breakdown.
Letter from people with Learning Disabilities
Wendy Perez is looking for 100 people with learning disabilities who want to sign her letter to the Prime Minister.
Death blamed on WCA by coroner
Simon Duffy talks to RT TV about the suicide of a man declared 'fit to work' by the failing WCA process.
Personal Budgets - what went wrong? 29 October
Dr Simon Duffy explores the ups and downs of personalisation at the Newcastle Business School.
Research on Peer Support and Personal Budgets
Jon Hyslop is looking for focus group participants who have experience of providing peer support to personal budget users in a range of different settings.
Celebrating Peer Support 9th October
Join us at an event celebrating Peer Support with PFG Doncaster on 9th October.
UN investigates UK for abuse of disability rights
The UN is investigating the UK for its failure to uphold the principles of the Un Convention on the Rights of Person with Disabilities.
Personal Health Budgets
Personal Health Budgets were attacked by many in the media; The centre for Welfare Reform responded.
Sign the new WOWpetition
The Government continues to assess the impact of its cuts on sick and disabled people - it's time to demand they do
Local Area Coordination research published
Ralph Broad's report on Local Area Coordination - People, Places, Possibilities outlines progress on implementation and recent research
Benefit sanctions in Wales
People with mental health problems bear the brunt of benefit sanctions in Wales, finds a new report published today by a group of Christian churches.
Iain Duncan Smith Responds
Iain Duncan Smith responds to letter from leading Catholics asking him to reconsider UK Government's version of welfare reform.
Open Letter to Iain Duncan Smith
Think-Tanks publish open letter from prominent Catholics to Iain Duncan Smith.
Fellow wins major international award
Steven Rose, CEO of Choice Support and a fellow of The Centre wins Platinum Award for work on ISFs.
Guide backs Individual Service Funds (ISFs)
New guidance published by Think Local Act Personal supports greater use of ISFs.
Petition - DWP must publish death statistics
DWP must publish statistics showing how many people have died after their benefits were stopped.
People-Centred Services Bursary available
On the ‘Vanguard Method for Locality Working’ programme at University of Buckingham.
Don't cut ESA and JSA further
A new petition on Change asks the UK Government not to abolish National Insurance contribution based ESA and JSA welfare benefits.
Psychological abuse in workfare
New research by authors Dr Lynne Friedli and Robert Stearn.
Jean Vanier wins 2015 Templeton Prize
Jean Vanier awarded the Templeton Prize 2015.
Impact of welfare reform on public spending
A resource database on the impacts of public spending cuts from The Centre for Human Rights in Practice at the University of Warwick
Devastating impact of cuts on disabled people
A letter published in The Guardian 1st May 2015.
Banks need to make accounts accessible
Sign this petition urging banks to create adapted accounts, tailored to their customers' needs.
The Emperor's New Clothes - 21st April
Russell Brand joins forces with acclaimed director Michael Winterbottom on a polemical documentary about the financial crisis and gross inequality we currently face.
#welfareceasefire on thunderclap
SIgn up to this thunderclap by 16th April 2015.
Sheffield - Alternatives to Austerity
The Festival of Debates in Sheffield provides a chance to discuss alternatives to austerity.
Carers deserve a livable income
CarerWatch and signatories letter in The Guardian 31st March 2015.
Conservatives leave chair empty
At the Citizen Jury Event being held by LDA England on 2nd April.
Social Care system in crisis
Major new report outlines the increasing crisis in social care
Churches welcome call for benefit sanctions review
A coalition of major UK Churches, with a combined membership of more than 800,000 people, has welcomed the call for a full independent review of the benefit sanction system.
Individual Service Fund (ISF) survey
Please complete this quick survey on Individual Service Funds from the Housing and Support Alliance.
Cumulative impact of welfare reform: Scotland
New research published by Scottish Parliament on the cumulative impact of welfare reform on households in Scotland.
Government must do better - survey results
Results from LDA England's quality checking Government survey February 2015 reveal the deep level of shock and outrage felt by many.
Discover - What is politics good for?
Series of useful seminars
Charities are servants of Government
A new research report from NCIA
Maximus Day of Action - 2nd March
Join DPAC in a day of protest across UK on 2nd March 2015.
Appeal for Thomas and family
Paula Rawnsley’s 20 year old son Thomas is in hospital on a life support machine. This is an appeal fund to help Thomas and his family.
Self-Directed Support in Scotland - 16 March
We Chose to Climb an international event on SDS in Glasgow, 16 March 2015.
Campaigning Charities in Austerity UK
A research report published by NCIA - Voluntary Services and Campaigning in Austerity UK.
Don't be shy, love your taxes
A series of protests being held in Sheffield on 14 February 2015, plus please sign the tax dodging bill petition.
Benefit sanctions savage mental health
Benefits claimants judged as unfit to work due to mental health problems are more likely to have their benefits stopped by sanctions than those suffering from other conditions.
Quality Checking Government
In the run up to the General Election in May 2015, the Learning Disability Alliance England have produced a questionnaire in order to quality check government policy.
Jobseeker Agreement Unlawful
Finding of tribunal into job seekers agreement
Independent Living Fund High Court ruling
Independent Living Fund High Court ruling
Claiming Full Citizenship Conference
Save the date and a call for papers for Claiming Full Citizenship Conference in Vancouver, October 2015.
Research shows impact of ISFs
Better Lives - an evaluation of personalisation in Southwark published today.
Best Buddies UK launched
Best Buddies UK launched at the end of October.
Poverty in Sheffield Today - 29 November
Finding A Way Forward - a meeting in Sheffield 29 November 2014.
Time to Stop the Lies
A petition on 38 degrees to the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards - IDS Time to Stop the Lies.
Keep Volunteering Voluntary
Sign up to this campaign to keep volunteering voluntaryp.
Regulations putting people at risk
Publication of open letter on regulations
LDA England goes live
LDA England website goes lives
H&SA Annual Conference 20 November 2014
The most important conference of the year for people working in the housing and supported living sector for people with learning disabilities.
Petition to re-think pre-paid benefit cards
Sign this petition at 38 degrees.
Women Centred Working
An initiative to encourage the design and delivery of more effective services for women who are facing multiple disadvantages.
Think on it: 3 - 5 December 2014
3 day residential workshop with Kate Fulton, Bright Souls and Judith North, Orenda.
Carers and General Election 2015
Carer Watch is compiling a list of questions to MPs before the elections in 2015 and collating their responses.
New report proposes basic income
Let's Scrap the DWP - the case for Basic Income Security - has been published by The Centre for Welfare Reform
Join the Learning Disability Alliance
The Campaign for a Fair Society, People First England and the Housing and Support Alliance have formed the Learning Disability Alliance - join them.
Call for welfare ceasefire
Carer Watch and Pat's Petition call for groups to support a welfare ceasefire to end the shameful changes to the current welfare system
Cutting Against the Grain - 25 September
A national conference on 25 September, organised by WomenCentre demonstrating the resilience, tenacity and innovation of women working for change in their lives and their…
Scotland Against the Care Tax
Sign this petition by Scotland Against the Care Tax - to end care charging in Scotland.
NZ tackle Down Syndrome discrimination
New Zealand Human Rights Commission to address prenatal discrimination against the down syndrome community.
Parliament condemns ESA and WCA
CarerWatch share a new report by the Work and Pensions Committee on Employment and Support Allowance and Work Capability Assessments.
Green Party support basic income
Green Party Manifesto 2015 to include universal basic income
Research Fellowship on basic incomes
Ailsa McKay Post Doctoral Research Fellowship in Economics
Dignity and Opportunity for All published
Just Fair publish a new report Dignity and Opportunity for All
Independent research on WCA published
An independent evaluation of the WCA by disabled people themselves
Speak up Against the Cuts - 10 July
The Learning Disability Carers Community invite people and organisations to come together to speak up about cuts to care services and funding.
Failure of Back-to-Work Programme
Failure of WRAG
Individual Service Funds published
Individual Service Funds - learning from Inclusion's 18 Years of Practice.
Working on the Inside published
Working on the Inside a new paper by Kate Fulton.
Dignity and Opportunity for All - 7 July
Event - Dignity and Opportunity for All: Securing the rights of disabled people in the austerity era, London 7 July.
Petition against Assisted Dying
Sign the Assisted Dying should not be legalised petition.
Support Women in Exile
Women in Exile is under threat, can you help?
Unlocking the Imagination updated
Simon Duffy's book first published in 1996 now updated, offers a path for commissioners who want to create the conditions for citizenship and stronger communities for everyone.
Cuts in Haringey put vulnerable adults at risk
New report published on 9 May by Haringey Learning Disabilities Partnership Board reveals the impact of cuts in funding to local services that vulnerable disabled adults depend…
Beyond the Barriers published
Important new report by Spartacus Network now published
Project SEARCH Europe conference - 24 June
Project SEARCH Europe conference - 24 June
Inclusive Education conference - 19 May
Inclusive education conference on 19 May
Deep Impact of cuts in Sheffield - 6 May
A public meeting in Sheffield on the impact of welfare reforms and cuts - 6 May.
World Down Syndrome Day 21 March 2014
World Down Syndrome Day 2014
Down's Syndrome Awareness Week
Down's Syndrome Awareness Week 17 – 23 March
End Hunger Fast campaign launches
A campaign in partnership with Church Action on Poverty.
Parliamentary debate on targeting of cuts
WOW petition debate held in Commons and motion passed.
The Church speaks out
Church letter in response to government's welfare reforms
Counting the Cuts in the media
Press coverage on report - Counting the Cuts.
Counting the Cuts - report published
Simon Duffy's new report Counting the Cuts has been published.
Support People First England
Details about how to help get People First England up and running.
Housing innovations at Cameron Trust
Cameron Trust vacancies, interviews 4 March 2014.
Guardian article on personalisation
Guardian article on the problems of personalisation
EU rules on tendering change
The new public procurement directive was adopted on 15 january 2014.
Protect access to justice for all
A petition from the Justice Alliance to save legal aid to protect access to justice for all.
Free Families Event - 20 February
A free event for families across the North of England.
Inclusive Education Conference - 8 February
An Inclusive Education and a Fulfilling Life Conference
Research shows failure of ESA
News from Spartacus Network
Help women lead change in rural India
Manavodaya are helping women lead sustainable change In rural India
On ESA? Help make it better
Are you in the Work-Related Activity Group (WRAG) for ESA?
Assessments undermined by norms
Kaliya Franklin's new report shows how WCA process is corrupted
A challenge to research methodologies in health
New report from the Health Service Management Centre: Doctor knows best? The use of evidence in implementing self-directed support in health care
European Policy Seminar on Self-Directed Support
European Policy Seminar on Self-Directed Support is held in Brussels on 5th December
Disability Rights in Austerity, Parliament - 26 November
Launch of the report from Just Fair Consortium on 26 November in the Houses of Parliament.
Victory on ILF
Victory on ILF
Shifting perspectives in housing and social care - 21 November
Ordinary Lives: Shifting perspectives in housing and social care - 21 November
Co-producing resilient communities - 11 November
Co-producing resilient communities: Building confidence and capacity
European Self-Directed Support Network launched
Announcement of the launch of the European Self-Directed Support Network
Values Into Action Scotland AGM - 6 November
Values Into Action AGM on 6 November 2013.
Breaking the Silence - 11 October
From Changing our Lives - a conference launching the Lost and Found project.
Time for a New Coalition?
10 attacks on the rights of disabled people.
10,000 Cuts and Counting - 28 September
10 Thousands Cuts & Counting is a ceremony of remembrance and solidarity for those who have had their lives devastated by the austerity programme.
3rd European Conference of Self Advocates
The conference title this year is Hear our Voices: Citizens First!
Launch of The Driving Up Quality Code
Launch of The Driving Up Quality Code - providers taking responsibility for driving poor care out of the sector.
Conversations on Citizenship Webinar Series
These webinars are being offered by the Citizen-Centered Leadership™ Development (CCLD).
The Campaign for a Fair Society joins Just Fair Consortium
The Campaign for a Fair Society joins Just Fair Consortium
Reclaiming Our Futures manifesto launched
DPAC launch manifesto
The Relational Basis of Empowerment
New paper written by Karl Nunkoosing and Mark Haydon-Laurelut
A guide for staying safe in hospital
New paper by Terry Lynch - Hospital
Institutional abuse is rife
New publication - Returning Home
Commissioning and Community Sourcing
New publication by Chris Howells and Chris Yapp
Whose Community Is It Anyway?
Whose community
Housing and Support Alliance appoints new chair
The Housing and Support Alliance (H&SA) has appointed Dr Simon Duffy, Director of The Centre for Welfare Reform, as its new chair.
Open letter from "extremist" organisations
Open letter from Campaign et al.
The Unmaking of Man published
The latest book by Dr Simon Duffy, Director of The Centre for Welfare Reform, is now available to buy.
New practical guide published - Freedom
A new practical guide to support published.
H&SA launch new initiative - Investing in Ordinary Lives
New initiative to increase the supply of housing for people with learning disabilities from the Housing and Support Alliance.
Twitter debate on the State of Social Work
SWSC Media are hosting a Twitter debate on Stand Up Social Work.
In Memory of Carl Poll
We remember the great pioneer and innovator Carl Poll.
Alicia Wood on residential care
Alicia Wood on residential care
Jon Glasby on social care funding
Jon Glasby on social care funding
OU & European Research Opportunity
The OU is looking for researchers to work with them on a European Funded project to look at the history of people with learning difficulties.
Saving Civil Legal Aid and Judicial Review
Public Meeting - Saving Civil Legal Aid and Judicial Review - briefing meeting for NGOs
Seminar in Halifax on 24 May
A Finnish perspective on the state of the welfare state in the UK today.
All in this Together deliver open letter to Welsh government
All in this Together deliver open letter to Welsh government in support of co-production
Why is social care facing the deepest cuts?
Article by Simon Duffy on Huffington Post UK on the severity of the cuts to social care.
Learning Disability Today Conference on 14 May
Learning Disability Today regional exhibition and conference in Sheffield 14 May.
NCIA Inquiry into voluntary services on 10 May
Launch of NCIA Inquiry into voluntary services on 10 May in London.
New research on the impact of welfare reform across Britain
New research from Sheffield Hallam University on the impact of welfare reform across Britain.
Reform in Australia
The Centre has published two major reports on the progress of disability funding reform and self-directed support in Australia.
1st May - Stand Up Social Work
The Centre is hosting a seminar in Doncaster to explore the future of social work.
Cuts in Sheffield meeting - 11 April
A public meeting hosted by Sheffield Equality Group on cuts to social care and support.
No Going Back - Forgotten Voices from Prudhoe Hospital
No Going Back documents the experiences of people who lived and worked at Prudhoe Hospital in County Durham.
European Parliament debate - 12 March
Effect of the crisis on people with disabiiities to be debated in European Parliament on 12 March.
Baroness Hollins backs Report
New report: A Fair Society? - how the cuts target disabled people
Ten Reasons to Hate the Welfare Cash Card
Simon Duffy has written a blog post on the Huffington Post UK website about the proposed Welfare Cash Card.
An alternative to privatisation
Chris Yapp and Chris Howells outline their concept of Community Sourcing, strengthening rather than hollowing out communities
Will Labour offer any protection to disabled people?
Members of Pats Petition meeting Liam Byrne MP February 6.
Fellows' Day on Older People on 6 March 2013
The Centre for Welfare Reform, in partnership with Relative Matters, are hosting a day of reflection on innovation for older people and future policy direction.
Emergency Stop - the impact of disability benefit changes
Campaign group calls for government to go ‘back to the drawing board’ as new report analyses impact of unexpected disability benefit changes
Winterbourne: There must be another way - but what is it?
A Post-Winterbourne opportunity to identify positive, outcome focussed alternatives to expensive, out of area placements and assessment and treatment units.
Commission on disability hate crime
A commission on disability hate crime established.
Govt reduces mobility for disabled people
Government reduces mobility for disabled people.
Pat's Petition Debate, House of Commons January 2013
Pat's Petition Debate in House of Commons in January 2013.
Personal Health Budgets
Personal Health Budgets evaluation report published
National Coalition for Independent Action
Speaking for us? Don't let them get away with it - sign our letter!
New UK Chair for Campaign for a Fair Society
New UK Chair for Campaign for a Fair Society
The Australian on fears for NDIS
The over-regulation of the national disability insurance scheme could lead to the duplication of services and a blowout in costs without major improvements to the lives of…
The People's Review of the WCA published
Anticipating the publication of Professor Harrington’s third (and, for him, final) annual review of the Work Capability Assessment, the WeAreSpartacus group have…
Partners for Inclusion Conference on 16 November
Partners for Inclusion Conference - Changing the Face of Services for Good
A new vision is needed
A new vision is needed
Publication of Better Nights (ISF initiative)
Choice Support improves night-time support and reduces costs by providing more personalised support through use of ISFs.
Social Work Action Network on 5 December
An event with Social Work Action Network (SWAN) and the Department of Social Work, Social Care and Community Studies at Sheffield Hallam University.
Facilitation Skills day on 27 November
A day to develop and practice our facilitation skills for fellows of the Centre and guests.
Inclusive Education and a Fulfilling Life Conference
A conference to bring together disabled people, including disabled children and their parents and their allies, to explore the opportunities and choice with regard to…
HSA Launched
Housing Options and the Association for Supported Living merge to form a new learning disabilities membership organisation.
Promoting human dignity in social work and community care
How professionals can help to create genuine, sustainable social change.
Mental Health Reform Conference on 6 December
This conference will explore three key aspects of mental health reform: personalisation, payment by results and peer power.
Major Housing and Support Conference on 22 November
Working Together - to deliver better housing and support for living, Housing Options' Annual Conference on 22 November.
Urgent Call for Action
Stop and review the cuts to benefits and services, which are falling disproportionately on disabled people, their carers and families.
Work programme needs local commissioning for innovation
Academic study finds back-to-work scheme's reliance on financial incentives undermines service innovation
Don Derrett on lessons from Winterbourne
Don Derrett's article in the Guardian on lessons for public managers following the Winterbourne View hospital scandal.
Congratulations to Steven Rose
Congratulations to Steven Rose.
CfWR Fellows' Day 18 September
Fellows Event - 18th September 2012.
Chunks of Information and Inspiration
Moving forward with Self-Directed Support.
Using the Law to Fight the Cuts updated
This valuable resource has been updated.
Personal Health Budgets event 12 September
North West Personal Health Budgets event in Liverpool on 12 September.
Community Care article on our RAS report
Mithran Samuel of Community Care writes about The Centre for Welfare Reform's latest report: A Fair Budget.
Personal Health Budgets report from SPRU
Personal Health Budgets: Experiences and outcomes for budget holders at nine months: Fifth interim report from the Social Policy Research Unit.
Independent Social Work Pilot Project
Independent Social Work Pilot Project run by ibk initiatives and LivesUnlimited.
Guardian article on Local Area Coordination
Simon Duffy's article in Guardian on Local Area Coordination.
Congratulations to Clare Jones awarded CBE
Clare Jones awarded CBE.
Kelly Hicks interviewed on Social Work role
Article in Guardian on Kelly Hicks and her role as an independent social worker.
Northern Ireland Campaign to be launched end of June
NI campaign begins
Innovation network launch in Leeds on 28th June
Innovation network launch in Leeds on 28th June
Housing Options' Away Day for Members
Members' Away Day on 27 June in London
Local Area Coordination report out 14 June 2012
LAC to be published
Peer Power report published 31 May 2012
New report on peer support published.
Demand for an assessment of human impact of the cuts
Guardian letter published
Possible breakthrough for disabled children
New proposals in England could promote inclusion and citizenship for disabled children
Over 35,000 people have signed Pat's Petition so far - have you?
Stop and review the cuts to benefits and services, which are falling disproportionately on disabled people, their carers and families.
New book on support to older people published
‘This is an invaluable book for anyone involved in planning care for elderly loved ones. It is both highly personal and supremely professional. It is a book about practice,…
Personalisation Forum Group shortlisted for Mental Health Hero award
It was announced this week that the Personalisation Forum Group has been shortlisted for the Mental Health Hero community organisation award.
Self Direct Members' Meeting 18 April 2012
The first Self Direct Members' Meeting (free membership included).
Sarah Maguire wins Training & Dissemination of Good Practice award
Sarah Maguire of Choice Support wins an award for Training and Good Practice.
Welsh Focus First Annual Conference 4 April 2012
Welsh Focus's Inaugural Conference - an important event in Wales.
Campaign for a Fair Society launches eight-point Manifesto
The Campaign For a Fair Society is launching its manifesto for a better future at an event at the House of Lords today (12th March).
ISFs in Action - to be published on 7 March 2012
How a large block contract was converted into individual service funds - report launch 7 March 2012.
Campaign Manifesto Launch on 12 March at House of Lords
Details of the Manifesto Launch for the Campaign for a Fair Society.
Support Buddies - peer support in action - new report published
Adult Social Worker of the year, Kelly Hicks, writes about Support Buddies - peer support in action
Kelly Hicks wins award: Adult Social Worker of the Year 2011
Congratulations to Kelly Hicks!
A Fair Income - what genuine welfare reform would look like
The Centre for Welfare Reform and the University of Birmingham have just published proposals for a radical reform of the tax-benefit system.
Dying with Dignity
Report outlines the cost of too many deaths in hospital and the case for using personalisation to better support families and individuals to promote dignity in dying.
Positively Local Published
Local communities need to be treated positively and respectfully if positive change is going to be achieved.
Social Policy Association Awards 2011
The Social Policy Association awarded Simon Duffy - outstanding contribution by a non-academic for his defining work on personalisation.
Women at the Centre
The Centre for Welfare Reform has published a landmark report on the innovative work of WomenCentre. Innovative and efficient services like WomenCentre continue to overcome…
Local Justice
A policy proposal to reduce the growing numbers of women and children in prison - published by The Centre for Welfare Reform and the University of Birmingham
2011 Tizard Lecture - A Fair Society & the Limits of Personalisation
Simon Duffy, one of the pioneers of personalisation, gave the 2011 Tizard Lecture at Kent University. He describes how the current crisis in the welfare state and the cuts that…
Launch of the Campaign for a Fair Society
The Campaign for a Fair Society has been launched to challenge the unfair cuts that target disabled people and to propose positive reforms that advance family, citizenship and…
Active Patient
Vidhya Alekason's policy paper makes the case for extending the use of individual budgets to large areas of healthcare.
Leading from the Front
People with mental health problems in Doncaster who have come together to transform their own lives and improve the quality of local services have just won a major award.
Resource Allocation in Mental Health
New discussion paper sets out the case for abandoning the health and social care divide for mental health services.
New Script for Care Managers
The case for radically reorganising the care management role and making better use of social work skills.
A Fair Start
Researchers call for new system to support disabled children and their families.
Architecture for Personalisation
A report and companion toolkit outlining the architecture necessary to support personalisation.
Personalised Support
Showing service providers how to transform their current services to offer highly flexible and creative supports - to people with the most complex and challenging needs.
Personalisation in Mental Health
A ground breaking model showing how mental health services might work in the future.
Personalised Transition
Radical extension of personalisation proves possible giving young people with disabilities and their families a totally new level of control over their life after school.
Should We Ban Brokerage?
New publication raises doubts about the value of independent professional brokerage.