A PORTHLEVEN man paralysed in a motorbike crash has hit out at government cuts targeting the disabled.
Geoffrey Squibb, 41, who is paralysed from the chest down, has seen his benefits cut under the Government's welfare reform and fears that he could face further reductions as well.
The former chef was paralysed from the chest down when his 250cc Suzuki machine collided with a car in 1990.
He spent seven months at the Duke of Cornwall spinal injuries unit in Salisbury before returning to a specially adapted bungalow in Porthleven.
Mr Squibb, who relies on income support and a disability living allowance (DLA) – that he was awarded for life – has spoken out against the Government's overhaul of the welfare system.
Having undergone more than 40 operations in the past two decades and facing more treatment, he now fears his income is under threat by the introduction of a new Personal Independence Payment to replace his DLA – abolishing his allowance for life.
Under the changes he is already having to find an extra £80 a month to cover 25 per cent of his council tax as well as the controversial "bedroom tax" for a spare room used to store his wheelchairs and for his carer when required.
"I am being reassessed for my benefits. I was paralysed 23 years ago, I don't see what they're achieving dragging me in for interview. I will never walk.
"I have friends with cerebral palsy who are worried that they will see their benefits cut because they have some mobility.
"I'm not saying disabled people should be let off the hook, we're all facing harsh financial times, but looking at people with disabilities is not always the answer."
Mr Squibb, who volunteers for Disability Cornwall and is a keen photographer, believed reducing much-needed benefits for people with disabilities could exacerbate their conditions, costing the Government more in healthcare.
Disability campaigners lobbying against sweeping changes to the welfare system say they fear it will "drive disabled people over the edge".
Steve Paget, MBE, chairman of Disability Cornwall, said the Government was ignoring the cumulative impact the cuts would have on the disabled.
He accused the Government of being black and white in its approach, adding: "I am concerned that the plethora of change facing disabled people on or below the poverty threshold will drive them to the edge.
"We are getting calls from people who are very frightened and overwhelmed."
A short film to help explain the complex changes to the benefits system can be seen at www.cornwall.gov.uk/welfarereform
