SDS calls for urgent action to remove barriers to sport and activity

The four-point Call to Action follows the publication of a new national survey by SDS, which highlights the ongoing inequalities experienced by people with a disability and the impact this has on their quality of life.  

The national survey revealed that 40% of people with a disability in Scotland are worried about losing their benefits if they are seen to be more physically active. With nearly 1 in 5 respondents doing no physical activity each week, yet 73% expressing a desire to do more, the results from the survey highlight concerns around the benefits system, rising living costs, public transport and more.   

SDS is urging government, local authorities, health boards, education providers, leisure trusts and third-sector organisations to recognise the rights of people with a disability, as set out in Article 30 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), and to collaborate on systemic change. 

Key actions called for include: 

Plan to include

• Reduce inequalities for people with disabilities through inclusive strategy, policy, development and proportionate funding.
• Invest in systemic change to remove barriers to accessible travel, affordable and accessible facilities and inclusive spaces.

Deliver an inclusive whole system approach

• Every person with a disability has the right to take part in quality inclusive physical activity, physical education and sport. 
• A health and social care system that prescribes appropriate physical activity opportunities at every stage of the individual’s pathway. 

A benefits and social care system that equips individuals to be active 

• Provide safeguards to reassure people with disabilities that being active will not negatively impact any government financial assistance.
• Those in receipt of Self-Directed Support in Scotland should be able and encouraged to use their budget to engage in physical activity and sport. 

Champion intersectionality through a person-centred approach 

• Collaborate with partners across sectors to champion intersectionality within policy, strategy and development.
• Ensure the needs of people with disabilities with intersecting identities are considered and met by co-design with those with lived experience.

95% of survey respondents believe physical activity helps their mental health and wellbeing yet over 90% do not meet the recommended levels of physical activity, with less than half of survey respondents receiving encouragement from a health or social care professional to be more active.  

Gavin Macleod, CEO of Scottish Disability Sport, said:

"This Call to Action is a really important piece of work for Scottish Disability Sport, as it is based on the evidence gathered from our first ever National Survey which we delivered in partnership with Queen Margaret University. The evidence clearly shows that there are four urgent priorities that must be addressed to create a more inclusive and active society for people with disabilities. These four Calls to Action will influence our work and the work of our many partners in Scotland and beyond."

SDS calls on a systemic change to create a more inclusive and active Scotland.  Read the full national survey by SDS on their website.