Access All: Disability News and Mental Health - Will the new DWP chief revisit benefits reform?

Download Will the new DWP chief revisit benefits reform?

An impromptu cabinet reshuffle last Friday has seen Pat McFadden take the reigns at the Department of Work and Pensions, DWP. But who is he? And could this mean that the benefits arguments will reopen after the big government climbdown back in the summer?

A report this week shows that people with learning disabilities are still dying significantly earlier compared to the general population. The LeDeR review regularly tracks the problem of appropriate medical care for those who can't communicate easily. (With thanks to Mencap for helping us put this piece together).

Plus neurodivergent workers who don't perform at their best when tied to a desk (metaphorically speaking). Accessible pregnancy tests for blind women. And some great lyrics from songwriters who reflect their disability experience in their music.

Presented by Emma Tracey with Alex Collins
Sound Mixing: Dave O'Neill
Producers: Alex Collins, Emma Tracey, Lucy Proctor and Phoebe Keane.
Editor: Damon Rose

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Published on Wednesday, 10th September 2025.

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