Ah well, it is all over bar the shouting.

The new benefits system that will have an impact on many disabled people’s lives is now in place.

Are our fears of widespread deprivation and isolation unfounded? I think not but only time will tell.

If, as we expected, there is a widespread detrimental effect then we must carry on protesting.

Of course we want a fair system where all those who need help and support get it; of course we want it to be more rewarding to have a job than to live on benefits; not only for the economy but for a sense of worth for disabled people, many of whom want to work but who have been unable to find a job despite many applications.

There have been some real problems in the assessments “as fit for work” that have been carried out over the last year. People with severe cerebral palsy were deemed “fit for work” but then, following a reassessment, were deemed “not fit for work”.

Can we really trust a system that makes those kind of decisions? On the other hand do we, as disabled people, need to be more determined. Are we pushy enough, do we sell ourselves well?

I think we do but somehow we are expected to be perfect even just to get an interview.

Take, for instance, the case I heard of recently. A 27-year-old cerebral palsy sufferer working as a customer relations officer was made redundant. The job demanded good communication skills, a pleasant and helpful attitude and good listening ability. Plenty to offer to a prospective employer you would think.

How successful was he? Well you couldn’t have faulted him on his persistence and resilience but, a year later with nearly 2,000 applications biting the dust, he was still seeking employment. One job required him to take an aptitude test and, guess what, he gained 98 per cent. Not good enough though for this firm.

In interviews he had noticed that the interviewers were uncertain how to treat him and often seemed to be uncomfortable and nervous. And so it was that he became a disability consultant working in a small office in a building designed for start-up businesses.

He now has several clients in big firms who report that his advice and education about disability has not only opened their eyes but has set about changes in their premises to take account of the needs of disabled people.