Evidence Review of Inequalities and Challenges Experienced by Disabled People in Scotland

This Evidence Review aims to gather together evidence which focuses on existing disability-specific and intersectional evidence covering inequalities and challenges, on which future recommendations can be made for improving the lives of disabled people in Scotland.

Key findings for children and young people

• The Scotland’s Census 2022 showed that 11.8% of the disabled population are under 25 and 6.6% are under 18.
• Research suggests that disability is more difficult to define for children as it is can be challenging to distinguish between a disability, a developmental delay or the impact of trauma.
• Studies suggest that disabled children may face higher exclusion rates, lower expectations for advance achievement, and challenges in transitioning to adulthood, including accessing employment, housing, and mental health services.
• Research found that disabled children’s access to educational support is inconsistent and does not always meet their needs.