Labour MP's fears over fate of fund

EAST Lothian Labour MP Fiona O'Donnell is demanding assurance from the UK Government over the future of vital cash help for disabled people.

She spoke out after reports suggested the Independent Living Fund (ILF), which gives money to severely disabled people to buy extra care and support, was being targeted in next month's spending review.

The closure of the scheme to new applicants in June, and plans to hand over Scotland's 61 million share of the fund to local authorities has worried disability campaigners.

Ms O'Donnellsaid: "The ILF is a lifeline for severely disabled people in Scotland allowing for additional care needs to be met and helping to provide a break for family members who otherwise, would struggle to cope.

"I am deeply concerned that the government are targeting the most vulnerable in society without consultation, and I intend to write to Maria Miller, the Minister for Disabled People, to seek assurances about the fund's long-term future."

Capability Scotland has estimated that less than 10 people a year in Scotland will be eligible for support from the fund under the new arrangements.