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Grimsby man with MS says disabled people at ‘breaking point’

Grimsby man with MS says disabled people at ‘breaking point’

A Grimsby man with multiple sclerosis has to choose between ‘paying for a carer or medication’, as he says disabled people are at ‘breaking point’.

In a report from the BBC, Martin Pridgeon, from Grimsby, called on the government to increase financial help during the cost of living crisis.

Mr Pridgeon relies on a private carer, to help him do household activities and chores he cannot do alone, such as cook and clean, Martin has secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) and struggles to do day-to-day tasks

The government said it had a £37bn package of support including extra payments for disabled people.

The 44-year-old, said: “Disabled people urgently need the support right now.”

He has planned to deliver a petition 10 Downing Street asking for more help for disabled people, which reportedly has over 14,000 signatures.

“Disabled people are at breaking point and stuck in a catch-22 situation because of the rising cost of living,” he said.

“The support that has been publicised in the autumn statement is all very well but why do we have to wait months to get it?”

In the Autumn budget, Jeremy Hunt said benefits were to increase in line with inflation, along with more money being put into the social care system.

“I want to share my experience because I know I am not the only one who will suffer this winter,” he added.

Mr Pridgeon is medically retired and receives Personal Independence Payment benefits, and has to spend £200 on the drug fampridine.

“I’ve had to cut down on food and heating to be able to afford it, even though it is really important for me to stay warm because of my MS,” he said.

A government spokesperson said it had put a “strong” financial support system in place.

“As part of our £37bn package of support, we are supporting six million people with a disability or health condition with an extra £150 payment while millions of low-income households will also be receiving at least £1,200 of direct payments this year.”

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Jack joined the Gi team in January 2022.