The government has launched a consultation on  the future of the Independent Living Fund (ILF).

The ILF has been closed to new applicants since December 2010. However, it still continues to support over 19,000 across the UK.

The ILF's budget is protected until 2015. The government proposes to close the ILF in 2015 and for local authorities to take on the funding and responsibility for ILA users' care and support. This consultation is asking ILF users for their views on whether they agree with the proposals, what the impact of the changes would be on people's lives and how they would like the ILF to work with them and local authorities.

The closing date for responses is the 10th of October 2012.

There will be no immediate impact on current ILF awards - they will continue funding users until 2015 so long as they remain eligible.

The ILF is writing to all users to tell them about the consultation and how they can take part. For more information, you can download a copy of the ILF letter and information sheet. You can take part in the consultation online. Alternatively, you can email your response or post it to:

ILF Consultation Team

Ground floor

Caxton House

Tothill Street

London

SW1A 9NA