MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY CAMPAIGN COST OF LIVING WITH MUSCLE DISEASE REPORT

Early day motion 1029, tabled 17 November 2010 by Stephen Lloyd (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 41 members.

That this House welcomes a new report by the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign, The Cost of Living with Muscle Disease, which highlights the extreme financial hardship faced by many families affected by muscular dystrophy and related neuromuscular conditions; notes that the report reveals that 40 per cent. of households with muscle disease are struggling to cover necessities including heating, gas and water; further notes that high usage of fuel for wheelchair users with these conditions, paired with rising costs, is resulting in quarterly fuel bills as high as 1,000 for some households; is concerned that 80 per cent. of households say that the current benefits system is not covering the additional cost of living with a disability; and calls on the Government to take action to alleviate poverty among people with muscle disease.

Signatures by party: Labour 17, Liberal Democrat 8, DUP 5, Conservative 4, Social Democratic and Labour Party 3, Plaid Cymru 2, Alliance 1, Scottish National Party 1.