DISABLED people, benefit claimants and supporters held a vigil and remembrance event yesterday for those who have died because of the actions of Paralympic sponsor Atos.
The event took place outside the company’s UK Head Office in Triton Square, Euston on the same day as the opening of the Paralympic Games.
Atos are responsible for carrying out the Government’s notorious Work Capability Assessment, a relentless health and disability assessment regime which has been used to slash vital benefits from hundreds of thousands of sick and disabled people.
Tragically, several people have committed suicide due to the endless, stressful assessments and the threat of poverty and destitution they bring.
An investigation by the Daily Mirror found that 32 people a week die after being declared ‘fit for work’ by the company, whilst Channel 4’s Dispatches recently exposed the system as ‘toxic’ in the words of Atos’ own staff.
Campaigners gathered in the square yesterday afternoon and delivered a coffin full of messages from victims of Atos to the front door of the company’s headquarters.
A memorial service then took place, involving a reading of the names of those who have died due to the company’s actions.
Some of the messages were then attached to black balloons and released as members of the congregation spoke of their own experiences at the hands of Atos.
The event took place during the National Week of Action Against Atos called by Disabled People Against Cuts (DPAC), to coincide with the London Paralympic Games.
Events are taking place in towns and cities around the UK and in London disabled people and supporters will be back at Triton Square tomorrow, Friday 31st August.
