Eloquent words from Beth, a brave lady at the sharp end of the system What I intended to say at the conference and missed bits out. Nerves I guess, so Ill say it all here. Im deafblind. I cant hear anything including myself and I see almost nothing. I strive to retain some independence, yet am still dependent on others, including the state. Once I could hear and see, once I paid my taxes. I have a daughter with challenging mental health problems. Im relevant person caring for her daughter during school days, providing respite and support. Familiar things are vital to me. My home and my neighbourhood. I live in the home I raised my younger children in. A family home and a happy home. Now everything is under threat. Welfare cuts and bedroom tax. I face a tribunal to justify why I should remain in my home. The government tell me, neither I, nor my grandchild qualify for exemption under human rights. The worry and stress as a result of this governments actions are immense. Im not alone. Im simply one of a growing list of faceless names now forced to live in fear, not knowing if well have roofs over head, food to eat and heat. Children with estranged parents can no longer claim two homes. Children in need of family help and intervention can no longer claim refuge. Weve been betrayed. Disabled, low waged, unemployed and others. Scottish government have betrayed us. Theyve betrayed childrens rights. But then, like the coalition. They betray us in almost everything anyway. I challenge THOSE government ministers to live a day in my shoes or a day in any other disabled persons life. Why must those most in need of help feel hopeless. And struggle more to survive when every day is already a struggle. Where is the justification. Disability isnt a choice. I face a future of silence and total blindness but I dare to dream for my children and grandchildren. I dream of a fairer system and government with justice and equality for all of us. Where this abhorrent bedroom tax is nothing but a bad memory, and people are secure in the homes they know. I dream of a Labour government. In Scotland and in Westminster. Of a united people and still...a United Kingdom
Posted on: Sat, 22 Mar 2014 21:08:10 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015