A mixed group of protesters stands in Piccadilly Gardens, Manchester, with Debenhams and Starbucks visible in the background. They are behind a large Disabled People Against Cuts banner, and some people hold additional signs with slogans including "Keir Starmer want us to Die!", Welfare Not Warfare", "If our labour is less exploitable to Labour we are just disposable", and "Energy for All".

The protest followed the publication of a green paper by the UK government detailing cuts to disability benefits that will affect 3.1 million households by 2030. The changes are expected to take effect from November 2026.

On Tuesday 1 April 2025, the same day OFGEM allowed the price of energy to rise by 6.4%, campaigners gathered in Manchester city centre to highlight the combined effect on disabled people from welfare cuts on top of price rises.

The increased price cap, which will take the average household bill up another £111 per year, will hit hardest the most vulnerable groups including pensioners and disabled people.

Those attending included Unite Community, Fuel Poverty Action, Manchester People’s Assembly and Disabled People Against Cuts.

The protestors also communicated their frustration towards the British government’s involvement in funding weapons overseas whilst budget cuts are being imposed on Britain, with the powerful chant “Welfare not Warfare, Welfare not Warfare’’.

The demonstration involved people sharing their personal stories of how they will be affected by the cuts, before leading a powerful procession down Manchester’s Market Street. The overall message of the protest was there is power in solidarity.


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Featured image: Emma White

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  • Emma White

    Emma White is a Geography and Politics student with a passion for environmental and gender politics. She’s especially interested in video journalism and using storytelling to highlight important social issues.

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