Stephen accepts recommendations on review into Carers Allowance

Sarah Agnew | @sarahagnewphotos via Unsplash

Stephen has announced that Ministers will be accepting the key recommendations of Sayce review on Carer’s Allowance.

Unpaid carers will now have their Carer's Allowance overpayments reviewed and potentially cancelled or repaid, following an independent review that found unclear guidance left people facing unexpected debts.

The independent Sayce Review, launched in October last year, found unclear guidance on averaging fluctuating earnings prevented carers from understanding what changes to their pay needed reporting to the Department for Work and Pensions. This meant thousands of people juggling 35 hours of care with paid work built up debts without realising they had breached the weekly earnings limit.

The DWP has accepted that unpaid carers were let down by confusing rules - in place between 2015 and summer 2025 - and this government is now moving to fix these inherited problems. Where it is found that overpayments were lower than originally calculated, carers will have their debts reduced or cancelled entirely, with the Government refunding any money already repaid.

Speaking about her review, Liz Sayce said: “My review found that overpayment debt has had major impacts on carers' health, finances and family well-being, and been a disincentive to work. I'm glad Government now plans to review cases and cancel or reduce debts affected by flawed guidance.”

Stephen, who is Minister for Social Security and Disability, added: “Carers deserve a benefit that reflects their vital contribution to society but, we inherited problems with Carer’s Allowance which we’re determined to fix. Every day, they provide care and support that enables their loved ones to live with dignity – and we owe them a system that works properly.

“I want to reassure carers that this issue doesn’t affect many cases. But where it’s gone wrong, we’ll put it right.

“The Government recognises the vital role carers play supporting the people they care for, their communities and the country, and is committed to making their lives easier.”

Stephen supports treatment for Huntington’s disease

Stephen has supported the Huntington’s Disease Association in Parliament to call for action to secure swift access for people with Huntington’s in East Ham to any future treatment for the disease.

The Huntington’s Disease Association Parliamentary Reception saw parliamentarians join people living with the disease, as well as family members and carers, to urge the government, the NHS and regulators to ensure that any future treatment for Huntington’s reaches patients as soon as possible.

Huntington’s disease is a rare, inherited neurodegenerative condition that gradually affects movement, cognition and mental health. Every child of a parent with the faulty gene has a 50% chance of inheriting it. For many families, that means living with the daily reality of caring for loved ones while knowing they may face the same future.

Speaking afterwards, Stephen said: “I’m pleased to be a Huntington’s Disease Champion and stand up for my constituents living with and affected by this rare, neurodegenerative condition.

“The recent news of a potential treatment for Huntington’s disease, which slowed its progression by around 75% in participants, was incredibly encouraging. We know that there are considerable challenges to getting treatments to patients, and I’m urging everyone – government, NHS and regulators – to work together to ensure people with Huntington’s can have access to this and any other new treatment.”

Stephen supports leading sight loss charity

Stephen has attended a parliamentary drop-in event organised by the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) in the House of Commons. He backed the charity’s call for an end to unacceptable wait times for essential support after people are diagnosed with a sight condition.

At the event, Stephen met blind and partially sighted people, professional Vision Rehabilitation Specialists, and RNIB staff and ambassadors to find out about the difference that timely access to local authority support - known as vision rehabilitation, can make, and learn more about this vital but often overlooked part of social care that enables blind and partially sighted people to live safely and independently after sight loss.

New research by RNIB shows that the vision rehabilitation support provided by local authorities including essential white-cane training, cooking and technology skills, has become an under-funded Cinderella social care service across England.

RNIB’s recent Freedom of Information report shows that across England, 20 per cent of local authorities (17 authorities) had people waiting over a year to receive just an initial assessment of the services they need; 85 per cent of local authorities did not complete vision rehabilitation assessments within the RNIB-recommended 28 days and 38 local authorities told us assessments are not always conducted by qualified Vision Rehabilitation Specialists.

At the drop in, MPs had the chance to try out some of the tools and adaptations blind and partially sighted people use to navigate the home, workplace and outdoors, hear directly from people whose lives have been transformed by vision rehabilitation, meet the specialists who deliver these services and find out what they can do to speed up access to support.

Stephen is now encouraging people to sign RNIB’s petition, calling on the Health Secretary to ensure vision rehabilitation is effectively and consistently delivered for people with sight loss.

Speaking afterwards, Stephen said: “Meeting blind and partially sighted people who have benefitted from vision rehabilitation made it crystal clear to me that this service is vital in supporting my constituents with sight loss to thrive and regain independence, whether that be navigating public transport, cooking a meal, or returning to the workplace.”

Stephen welcomes new Co-Chairs for PIP review

Stephen has welcomed the appointment of two co-chairs for the first ever full review of Personal Independence Payment (PIP). It is being followed by the launch of a recruitment process for its wider steering group.

Dr Clenton Farquharson CBE and Sharon Brennan have been appointed as co-chairs of the Timms Review, alongside the Minister for Social Security and Disability, Sir Stephen Timms. Dr Clenton Farquharson CBE brings more than 25 years’ experience as a national advocate for disability rights, co-production and social justice. He is Associate Director at Think Local Act Personal, a Trustee of Disability Rights UK, and National Development Team for Inclusion. Sharon Brennan brings expertise from previous roles including as Director of Policy and External Affairs at National Voices, a coalition of health and care charities, and advising the Department for Transport on accessibility as a member of the Disabled Person’s Transport Advisory Committee.

Since PIP was introduced over a decade ago, there have been shifting trends in long-term health conditions and disability, plus changes in wider society and the workplace. Close to 10 million working age people are disabled, and this number has grown by nearly 3 million since 2013/14. There have been greater increases in the prevalence of disability among young people and a rise in mental health conditions.

However, despite these shifts, PIP has never been fully reviewed until now. The aim of this review is to make sure PIP fairly reflects the reality of the impact of people’s conditions in the modern world, as well as considering the needs of disabled people more widely. It will look at the role of PIP in enabling disabled people to live independently and fully participate in society, as well as the role of the assessment in unlocking wider support.

Speaking about the Review, Stephen said: "We’re ensuring disabled people and those with long-term health conditions can access the same opportunities, choices, and chances as everyone else. “That’s why we’re putting them at the heart of the first ever full review of PIP – making sure it is fair and fit for the future.

“I’m delighted to welcome Dr Clenton Farquharson CBE and Sharon Brennan as the Review’s co-chairs and encourage people with lived experience to apply to be part of this important work.”

Stephen welcomes new report on school readiness

Agence Olloweb | @olloweb via Unsplash

 Stephen has welcomed a new report from the Institute for Government (IfG) which shows that boys eligible for free school meals in Newham are among the most likely in the country to be ‘school ready’ by age five.

One of the Government’s key missions is to Break Down Barriers to Opportunity, aiming to close the gap between a child’s background and their future success. The benchmark for this mission is for 75% of children to be ‘school ready’ by the time they start school.

The IfG research reveals that Newham is leading the way in supporting disadvantaged children, with 57.7% of FSM eligible boys being school ready by age 5. Boys from low-income families who qualify for free school meals often fall behind their peers in early education. However, over the past three years, Newham has achieved the best results nationally in preparing these boys for school.

Speaking about the report, Stephen “This new Institute for Government research is encouraging. We know Newham’s early years provision is among the best in the country.  I believe young children in Newham also benefit from our very supportive community.  This is a heartening example of excellent progress in the borough.”

The Institute for Government is now conducting further research to understand what is driving this success in Newham.

Stephen applauds new partnership to support Indian students in the UK

Stephen has welcomed a landmark agreement between the University of East London (UEL) and the National Indian Students and Alumni Union UK (NISAU), describing it as a “blueprint for inclusive and globally minded education.”

Stephen joined guests at UEL’s Stratford Campus to witness the signing of a sector-first Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between UEL and NISAU. The agreement establishes a strategic framework to enhance the welfare, employability, and success of Indian students in the UK, from pre-arrival through to post-graduation.

The MoU was signed by Professor Amanda Broderick, UEL Vice-Chancellor and President, and Sanam Arora, Chairperson of NISAU. Also in attendance were Lord Patel of Bradford OBE and Virendra Sharma, the former MP of Ealing Southall and Patron of NISAU.

Speaking at the launch, Stephen said: “This partnership is a powerful example of how our universities can lead the way in fostering international collaboration and student success. Indian students contribute enormously to our communities, and it is vital that we continue to support their journey in the UK with compassion, opportunity, and innovation.”

Stephen secures funding injection to tackle homelessness in East Ham

Jon Tyson | via Unsplash @jontyson

Stephen has secured a major funding injection to tackle homelessness and rough-sleeping in East Ham.

Thousands of people facing homelessness will be supported by a new £84 million cash injection to councils up and down the country ahead of winter, with East Ham set to benefit.

Children and families in temporary accommodation in East Ham will be prioritised – with the funding to go towards helping families to cover the essentials like food, school travel and laundry. The new funding will support children to remain in education.

The investment provides tailored services for those experiencing long-term rough sleeping – including mental health support, drug and alcohol treatment and sustainable accommodation – ensuring people get the help they need to rebuild their lives.

Speaking about the announcement, Stephen said: “This funding is very welcome, especially as winter approaches. We know from previous projects that that targeted support can make a big difference and help people take their first steps out of homelessness.”

Stephen tries world-first breath test for pancreatic cancer

Stephen has tried a new breath test for pancreatic cancer that could help save thousands of lives in the future - simply from people with suspicious symptoms blowing into a breathalyser-type device at their GP surgery.

Stephen met scientists from Imperial College London, who are developing the innovative technology, at a Labour Party Conference stall hosted by Pancreatic Cancer UK. The charity has invested £650,000 into the research study to help put what it hopes will be the first-ever early detection test for the disease into the hands of doctors.

Unlike many other cancers, no early detection tests for pancreatic cancer currently exist to help doctors determine who should be urgently referred to hospital for a scan. Yet 91 per cent of people with the disease see their GP with symptoms two years before diagnosis. The breath test could help save thousands of lives by helping to identify more people with the disease at early stage. To date, survival rates have barely improved in 50 years.

Stephen heard how the breath test, which is designed to be accurate, non-invasive, and usable in a GP surgery, could have a significant impact while remaining affordable for the NHS. Most importantly they learned about its potential to give many more people the chance of lifesaving or life-extending treatment. Currently just 10 per cent of people with the disease are diagnosed in time for surgery, the only potentially curative treatment.

The Pancreatic Cancer UK stand at the Labour Party Conference featured stories of families from across the UK who have lost loved ones to the disease. Around 10,500 people are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer each year. However, almost 60 per cent of people are currently diagnosed via an emergency (such as through visiting A&E), the highest proportion of any common cancer. One-year survival for patients diagnosed through a GP referral is three times higher.

Speaking afterwards, Stephen said: “This devastating disease is a silent killer. After learning about the stories of people affected by pancreatic cancer from right across the UK, I can well understand the anger and injustice so many families feel about the lack of progress.

“Advances in technology, like the breath test, could be game-changing. It’s incredibly important that we continue to support innovative projects like this, alongside investing in further research focused on pancreatic cancer. This disease poses unique challenges, but the significant improvements made in other types of cancer are proof of what’s possible.”

Stephen visits UEL's Legal Advice Centre

Stephen has visited the Legal Advice Centre (LAC) at UEL’s Royal Docks School of Business and Law, University Square Stratford campus.

Nurun Choudhury studied at UEL and volunteered for the LAC before receiving a training contract from UEL and qualifying as a solicitor in March 2024. Nurun, who is now a Lecturer in Law and Policing and Lead and Supervising Solicitor at the UEL LAC, said, “We are deeply grateful to Sir Stephen Timms MP for visiting the UEL Legal Advice Centre and for his unwavering support over the past decade. It was a pleasure to welcome him to the Royal Docks School of Business and Law again.

“We especially thank him for the valuable work opportunities he continues to offer our law students at the LAC, which play a vital role in their development and confidence. His continued collaboration has been instrumental for our students and strengthening our community outreach. We look forward to many more years of working together in service of access to justice."

Speaking after the visit, Stephen said: “I am delighted to visit the Legal Advice Centre at UEL and enjoyed meeting the dedicated team of staff, volunteers and students. The Centre plays a vital role in supporting our community by offering free legal advice to those who need it.”

“It is an exciting time for the Royal Docks School of Business and Law, which is celebrating 50 years of teaching law this year. The School has also been nominated for ‘Business School of the Year’ in the Times Higher Education Awards. I will keep my fingers crossed for the final announcement in November!”

Stephen celebrates 25 years of the Bangladesh Hindu Association UK

Stephen has welcomed the 25th anniversary of the Bangladesh Hindu Association UK, praising the organisation’s longstanding contribution to community cohesion, cultural preservation, and interfaith dialogue across Britain.

Founded in 1999, the Bangladesh Hindu Association UK has grown into a vital platform for British Hindus of Bangladeshi heritage, promoting social harmony and celebrating the rich traditions of Bengali Hindu culture. Its milestone anniversary was marked by a vibrant celebration attended by community leaders, cultural performers, and representatives from across the UK.

Stephen said: “The Bangladesh Hindu Association UK has played a vital role in strengthening community ties and promoting understanding across faiths and generations. I warmly congratulate them on 25 years of service and look forward to continuing our work together to support inclusion, dignity, and opportunity for all.”

Stephen, who has long championed the rights of minority communities in Parliament, has regularly engaged with British Bangladeshi organisations and spoken out on issues affecting diaspora communities. His East Ham constituency is home to one of the UK’s largest Bangladeshi populations, and he has consistently supported initiatives that celebrate cultural heritage while tackling inequality and discrimination.

The anniversary event featured traditional music, dance, and reflections on the Association’s journey, with tributes paid to its founders and volunteers. The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to youth engagement, elder support, and advocacy on issues affecting British Hindus.

Stephen highlights success of Faith Covenant

Stephen has praised the impact of the Faith Covenant in fostering collaboration between local authorities and faith communities, marking ten years since the initiative was launched.

Speaking at a Westminster event evaluating the Covenant’s success, Stephen, who is the former Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Faith and Society, said: “A lot of councils were pleasantly surprised by how positive their experience of working with faith groups turned out to be. If you wanted to work with willing volunteers, who were able to make an impact, had great premises and could reach into parts of the community that government often doesn't have much access to, then faith groups were the ideal partners.”

The Faith Covenant, first proposed by David Lammy MP and supported by the APPG on Faith and Society, provides a framework for local authorities and faith organisations to work together effectively. Its importance became particularly clear during the COVID-19 pandemic, when church-led food banks and community support services were in high demand.

Sir Stephen added: “There is increasingly, at the heart of government, an understanding of just how important this is. It’s not just that faith groups are happening to do useful things – it's the faith itself which is inspiring, equipping, and motivating people to make these very positive contributions in their communities.”

The government has recently launched a new ‘Civil Society Covenant’ to encourage collaboration with secular organisations, a move Sir Stephen believes was “likely inspired by” the success of the Faith Covenant.

Stephen visits Christians Against Poverty

Credit: Christians Against Poverty

Stephen has visited Christians Against Poverty’s (CAP) Central Support Hub in Bradford to hear directly from those affected by poverty and debt.

During the visit, Stephen met with former CAP clients, local debt advisors, and support workers to discuss the challenges faced by people living on low incomes. Many shared how rising costs and insufficient income from wages and social security have left them unable to afford essentials, forcing them into debt.

Stephen also heard about the value of CAP’s holistic approach to support. With over 3,000 local workers and partnerships with more than 200 churches, CAP provides face-to-face help that addresses both financial and emotional needs. Clients spoke about how this personalised support has helped them regain financial stability and confidence.

Reflecting on the visit, Stephen said: “As we continue our review into Universal Credit, it was important to hear the views of the charity’s clients and debt advisors on how we can ensure the benefit is tackling poverty and works better for people. Christians Against Poverty is doing a fantastic job supporting people to manage their debt and enjoy the benefits of financial freedom.”

Stephen welcomes commitment to recognising Palestinian statehood

Stephen has welcomed the Prime Minister’s announcement that the UK is on a pathway to recognising the State of Palestine in September, unless urgent steps are taken by the Israeli Government to end the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.

The Prime Minister made clear that unless Israel halts its military operations, permits the flow of UN aid, and commits to no further annexations in the West Bank, the UK will proceed with recognition of Palestinian statehood at the United Nations General Assembly in September.

Since taking office, the Government has taken a series of urgent steps to address the crisis. These include working with Jordan to deliver humanitarian aid into Gaza, evacuating injured children to receive treatment in British hospitals, and suspending arms export licences to Israel. The Government has also imposed sanctions on far-right Israeli ministers, suspended trade negotiations, and committed nearly a quarter of a billion pounds in humanitarian support. A landmark agreement has also been reached with the Palestinian Authority to support long-term peace efforts.

In a letter to constituents, Stephen emphasised that Palestinian statehood is not a gift to be granted, but an inalienable right of the Palestinian people. He said recognition is essential to achieving a lasting peace and the long-term security of both Palestinians and Israelis. He also reiterated the Government’s position that Hamas must release all hostages, agree to a ceasefire, lay down its arms, and accept that it will play no role in the future governance of Gaza.

“No one side will have a veto on recognition,” Stephen said. “This is about restoring hope, dignity, and a path to peace. I am proud to support a Government that is taking bold, principled action in the face of immense suffering.”

Stephen visits Newham University Hospital

Stephen Timms alongside some previous beneficiaries of supported internships.

A few weeks ago, Stephen visited Newham University Hospital to learn more about the Council’s supported internship programme.

Supported internships are a work-based study programme for young people with learning disabilities, aged 16 to 24. They are structured around a substantial work placement, facilitated by the support of an expert job coach.

Newham Council’s supported internships programme forms part of their efforts to champion inclusive employment. The programme has already helped 56 residents into work placement, with 36 progressing into long-term paid employment, and 11 into further education.

During the visit, Stephen heard from young people who had benefited from the scheme. One of these young people, Abdul, has recently completed the 12 month programme. He was working with the administration team, and has now been offered a permanent role – something that means a lot to him, as it is a reflection that his skills are valued.

After attending the event, Stephen said “It was such a pleasure to meet the young people on the scheme and learn first-hand the valuable experience it’s given them, and especially to hear that these young people are moving into permanent jobs.” 

Stephen looks forward to seeing how the council continue to build on these efforts.

Stephen urges action on drug access for secondary breast cancer patients

Earlier today, Stephen wrote to the Health Secretary asking whether he was minded to review NICE’s severity threshold.

Stephen’s letter was on behalf of a number of constituents who emailed following the publication of a report, Setting the Bar Too High, by the charity Breast Cancer Now. It warned that the current system for approving new drugs on the NHS is failing patients with incurable cancer.

In 2022, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) introduced a new “severity modifier” to allow greater NHS spending on treatments for the most serious conditions. However, Breast Cancer Now’s report finds that the threshold for what qualifies as a “very severe” condition has been set too high and without sufficient evidence. As a result, some patients with secondary breast cancer are being told their condition does not meet the criteria—despite the disease being incurable and often life-limiting within months

Having sent the letter, Stephen said: “I would like to thank my constituents for getting in touch about this important mater. They are concerned that the current system is denying people access to treatments that could significantly extend and improve their lives.

“My constituents are calling for urgent reforms to ensure that appropriate medication can be approved and made available more effectively.

“I will continued to follow this matter closely.”

Stephen writes to Foreign Secretary about arms exports

Earlier today, Stephen wrote to the Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, about UK arms exports to Israel.

A number of constituents have been in contact with Stephen in recent months, outlining their concerns about the continued arms sales. They welcomed the government's decision in September last year to suspend 30 export licenses to Israel. At the time, Ministers cited a clear risk that they might be used to commit or facilitate serious violations of international humanitarian law.

Those who have been in touch with Stephen are troubled about what is happening in Gaza. They note a recent UN report estimated that 40,000 babies face starvation due to the man-made famine.

Having sent the letter, Stephen said "I am grateful that my constituents have contacted me about this issue. I will be sure to send them the reply from the Foreign Secretary as soon as I receive it.

“I deeply regret the breakdown of the ceasefire in Gaza and the continuation of hostilities and bloodshed. Palestinians in the area have endured too much, and I call on Israel to restart the much needed flow of aid, immediately".

Stephen pushes for strengthening of Hunting Act

Earlier today Stephen wrote to the Environment Secretary, Steve Reed, asking if the government had plans to strengthen the Hunting Act (2004).

In recent weeks, Stephen has been contacted by a number of East Ham residents who have signed the Protect the Wild petition. The petition asks that Ministers ban trail hunting. It notes that current legislation includes several exemptions which allow the use of a maximum of two dogs for certain hunting activities.

In his letter Stephen called for a full ban that removes “all exemptions and ensures all wild animals are fully protected from being chased and killed illegally.” Such a commitment was included in the Government’s manifesto last year.

Having sent the letter, Stephen said “I am grateful for my constituents getting in touch about this, I stand firmly behind this government’s commitment to ban trail hunting. This will provide significant protections for wild animals including foxes and hares.

“I understand ministers are currently undertaking work to determine the best approach, and hope an announcement will be made soon.’

Stephen attends parliamentary event on Aphasia

Last week, Stephen attended a parliamentary event hosted by Aphasia Support, where he found out more about their efforts to support the 350,000 people living with Aphasia in the UK.

Aphasia is a devastating hidden disability caused by damage to the brain, affecting a person’s ability to speak, read, write and communicate with the world around them. A third of people who experience a stroke will develop some form of Aphasia. The neurological condition can also be caused by a head injury, brain tumour or a form of dementia.

Speech and language therapy is the most common and most effective treatment for Aphasia. Provision is inconsistent across various regions, so Aphasia Support have developed a Branch Network model, which aims to embed support in local communities.

After attending the event, Stephen remarked “I was proud to join Aphasia Support in raising awareness and commend them on their efforts to widen access to speech and language therapy provision. I look forward to continuing to work alongside them in this through my work as Minister for Disability. Together, we can ensure that people with Aphasia receive the care, compassion and support they deserve.”

Stephen writes to Home Secretary about safe routes

Earlier today, Stephen wrote a letter to the Home Secretary about the Border Security, Asylum, and Immigration Bill.

The Bill was introduced to the House of Commons by the Government earlier this year. It makes a number of recommendations as to how Ministers can strengthen the UK’s borders.

In the last month Stephen has been contacted by a number of his constituents who are concerned that the Bill does not introduce any “safe routes” to the UK. Following the emails he has received, Stephen wrote to the Home Secretary asking if she had plans to introduce such routes for asylum seekers coming to the UK.

Having sent the letter, Stephen said “I would like to thank my constituents who have contacted me about this. Immigration has always been important to the UK, but the system must be fair and manageable. This Bill will put in place measures to tackle criminal gangs as we attempt to clear the backlog of cases that are yet to be looked at.”

Stephen writes to Minister about fireworks regulations

Earlier today, Stephen wrote to the Secretary of State for the Environment about fireworks and their impact on animal welfare.

A number of constituents have contacted Stephen in recent weeks following the publication of research by the RSPCA and the Social Market Foundation. It found that 55% of pet owners fear fireworks. Those who have got in touch are troubled that the laws currently in place are inappropriate and often misused.

The research recommended that new regulations be brought in to reduce the decibel limit on fireworks, restrict the sales to licensed shops, and consider introducing designated “firework-free zones”.

Speaking about the letter, Stephen said: “I am grateful that my constituents have contacted me about the use of fireworks. I welcome the report by the RSPCA about the impact fireworks can have on animals.

I hope the government can continue to engage with businesses, consumer groups, and charities to gather more evidence about the impact of fireworks on animals. I hope ministers will look to re-examine legislation relating to the sale of fireworks if policy changes are needed."

A Private Member's Bill - the Fireworks Bill - has been introduced to the House of Commons by Labour MP Sarah Owen. It is due to be debated by MPs next month.