The government has unveiled plans to stop serious criminals detained in hospital from claiming thousands of pounds a year in state benefits, a move hailed as a victory for victims' families and taxpayers.
Closing a "Clear Injustice" in the Benefits System
Currently, while prisoners are barred from claiming benefits, a loophole allows individuals held in hospitals under court orders – such as those convicted of manslaughter or rape – to receive over £800 a month in Universal Credit. Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden announced he will consult on extending the existing benefits ban to these offenders, whose accommodation, meals, and medical care are already state-funded.
"I don't think there's a single household in Britain who believes it's right that convicted criminals receive thousands of pounds a year in benefits," Mr McFadden stated. "It's unfair to victims' families and to taxpayers whose hard-earned cash ends up in the pockets of offenders, and contrary to our values."
Families of Nottingham Attack Victims Welcome Change
The proposed reform has been strongly endorsed by the parents of Grace O'Malley-Kumar, a 19-year-old medical student tragically killed in the Nottingham attacks in June 2023. Her killer, Valdo Calocane, was given an indefinite hospital order after pleading guilty to manslaughter on grounds of diminished responsibility.
Dr Sinead O'Malley and Dr Sanjoy Kumar said they were "delighted" by the announcement. "For us, the campaigning families, this is what decisive and bold departmental leadership looks like," they said. "Pat's actions benefit our country and our communities."
A "Long-Overdue Reform" for Other Grieving Families
Another family supporting the change is that of Kennedi-Westcarr-Sabaroche, 25, who was murdered by her boyfriend in 2023. Her killer was also detained under a hospital order. Kennedi's mother, Linda Westcarr, called the plans a "long-overdue reform to the benefits system, which corrects a clear injustice that has caused real harm for too long."
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) was careful to clarify that the change would not affect individuals who have been sectioned under the Mental Health Act but have not committed any crime. The focus is solely on those convicted of serious violent and sexual offences.
Mr McFadden, who met with affected families in London, emphasised the complexity of the issue but vowed to act. "I'm acting to right the wrongs within our benefits system, so it supports people who genuinely need it, while delivering fairness to the taxpayer," he said.
