Disability Rights Advocate Rejects MBE Over UK Government Policies
Published 30 December 2025
Highlights
- Tressa Burke, CEO of the Glasgow Disability Alliance, declined an MBE due to UK government policies affecting disabled people.
- Burke criticized the November Budget for cuts to disability benefits and the Motability scheme, exacerbating inequalities.
- She highlighted the negative portrayal and scapegoating of disabled individuals by the government.
- Burke emphasized the importance of collective action and community support within the Glasgow Disability Alliance.
- The Cabinet Office acknowledged Burke's decision, respecting her choice not to accept the honour.
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Rewritten Article
Disability Rights Advocate Rejects MBE Over UK Government Policies
In a bold statement against current UK government policies, Tressa Burke, the chief executive of the Glasgow Disability Alliance, has declined an MBE offered in the New Year Honours. Burke, a prominent figure in disability rights, cited the "intolerable" conditions faced by disabled individuals as the primary reason for her decision.
Criticism of Government Policies
Burke's rejection of the honour comes in response to recent policy changes announced in the November Budget. These changes include cuts to the Motability scheme and stricter assessments for Personal Independent Payments, which Burke argues have intensified the challenges faced by disabled people. "The political choices made in the UK Budget have supercharged the inequalities and unfairness disabled people face," she stated in a letter to the Cabinet Office.
Impact on Disabled Communities
Burke, who has led the Glasgow Disability Alliance for nearly two decades, expressed concern over the government's portrayal of disabled individuals. She accused the government of "demonising, dehumanising, and scapegoating" disabled people, exacerbating societal divisions. Despite acknowledging some positive aspects of the Budget, such as inflation-aligned increases to disability benefits, Burke emphasized that these were overshadowed by more severe measures.
A Call for Collective Action
Highlighting the power of community, Burke praised the Glasgow Disability Alliance's efforts in supporting over 5,000 members, particularly during the pandemic. She stressed the importance of collective action in advocating for policy changes and improving the lives of disabled individuals. "Ultimately, I am most proud of the people power of GDA," she remarked, underscoring the organization's role in fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment among its members.
Government Response
The Cabinet Office, in response to Burke's decision, expressed regret that her name could not be included in the New Year 2026 Honours List but respected her wishes. Burke's stance has sparked discussions on the broader implications of government policies on disabled communities and the need for more inclusive and supportive measures.
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Scenario Analysis
Looking ahead, Burke's rejection of the MBE could catalyze further scrutiny of UK government policies affecting disabled individuals. Her actions may inspire other advocates to voice their concerns, potentially leading to increased pressure on policymakers to address the inequalities highlighted. The upcoming Scottish government elections and the implementation of the new disability equality plan will be closely watched by advocates like Burke, who hope for more progressive and inclusive policies. As discussions around social care funding and disability benefits continue, the need for a comprehensive approach to support disabled communities remains critical.
In a bold statement against current UK government policies, Tressa Burke, the chief executive of the Glasgow Disability Alliance, has declined an MBE offered in the New Year Honours. Burke, a prominent figure in disability rights, cited the "intolerable" conditions faced by disabled individuals as the primary reason for her decision.
Criticism of Government Policies
Burke's rejection of the honour comes in response to recent policy changes announced in the November Budget. These changes include cuts to the Motability scheme and stricter assessments for Personal Independent Payments, which Burke argues have intensified the challenges faced by disabled people. "The political choices made in the UK Budget have supercharged the inequalities and unfairness disabled people face," she stated in a letter to the Cabinet Office.
Impact on Disabled Communities
Burke, who has led the Glasgow Disability Alliance for nearly two decades, expressed concern over the government's portrayal of disabled individuals. She accused the government of "demonising, dehumanising, and scapegoating" disabled people, exacerbating societal divisions. Despite acknowledging some positive aspects of the Budget, such as inflation-aligned increases to disability benefits, Burke emphasized that these were overshadowed by more severe measures.
A Call for Collective Action
Highlighting the power of community, Burke praised the Glasgow Disability Alliance's efforts in supporting over 5,000 members, particularly during the pandemic. She stressed the importance of collective action in advocating for policy changes and improving the lives of disabled individuals. "Ultimately, I am most proud of the people power of GDA," she remarked, underscoring the organization's role in fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment among its members.
Government Response
The Cabinet Office, in response to Burke's decision, expressed regret that her name could not be included in the New Year 2026 Honours List but respected her wishes. Burke's stance has sparked discussions on the broader implications of government policies on disabled communities and the need for more inclusive and supportive measures.
What this might mean
Looking ahead, Burke's rejection of the MBE could catalyze further scrutiny of UK government policies affecting disabled individuals. Her actions may inspire other advocates to voice their concerns, potentially leading to increased pressure on policymakers to address the inequalities highlighted. The upcoming Scottish government elections and the implementation of the new disability equality plan will be closely watched by advocates like Burke, who hope for more progressive and inclusive policies. As discussions around social care funding and disability benefits continue, the need for a comprehensive approach to support disabled communities remains critical.
