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Last month, we told you about the Department for Work and Pension’s (DWP) recent consultation, which proposed either scrapping or making it harder for people to claim points against the Absence or loss of bowel/bladder control (continence) activity in the Work Capability Assessment. We opposed these changes, knowing that they would make it even harder for people with Crohn’s and Colitis to access vital support.
Government U-Turn on Reforms to the Work Capability Assessment Continence Activity
We are delighted that the Government accepted our response and have decided not to go ahead with these changes, acknowledging that ‘the unpredictable nature of continence issues are difficult to manage, even with the option of flexible or hybrid working.’
We could not have done this without you
We are so grateful to all of you who shared your experience of working with symptoms of incontinence. These powerful stories helped shape our response and demonstrated the reality of living with this debilitating symptom.
Next steps
We will continue to call on the UK Government to change the continence descriptor so that it reflects the reality of living with incontinence. We are urging Government to listen to people with lived experience to ensure any future reforms meet the needs of people living with Crohn’s and Colitis.
You are the expert in your experience and your story is powerful. If you would like to share your experience of applying for benefits to help us make the case for change to Government, please contact policy@crohnsandcolitis.org.uk.
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Helpline Service
Temporary closure - 10/06/2026
Our Helpline will be closed from Wednesday 10 June and will reopen at 10am on Monday 15 June.
We may be closed but we have lots of information here on our website.
If you need urgent medical advice you can call NHS 111 or in Northern Ireland phone your local Phone First. In an emergency call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
If you need emotional support the Samaritans are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 116 123.
We know it can be difficult to live with, or support someone living with Crohn’s or Colitis. But we’re with you. We can give you the right information and support at the right time.
We’re here for everyone.
How Can We Help?
- We can help you understand Crohn’s and Colitis
- Listen and talk about living with IBD
- Help you connect with others in the Crohn’s and Colitis community
- Give you contact details of specialist organisations
- We can support you to live well with Crohn’s or Colitis and provide up-to-date, evidence-based information
Please be aware we’re not medically or legally trained. We cannot provide detailed financial or benefits advice or specialist emotional support.
Please contact us via telephone, email or LiveChat - 10am to 3pm, Monday to Friday (except English bank holidays).
If you need specific medical advice about your condition, your GP or IBD team will be best placed to help.
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