Ministers have highlighted the Scottish Budget as giving
certainty to disabled people, communities and organisations
working to advance disability equality.
The draft Budget commits a record £3.5 million per year over the
next three years to support disability equality, inclusion and
accessibility, including direct support for Disabled People's
Organisations (DPOs).
At a visit to Glasgow Disability Alliance's Mental Health and
Wellbeing project, Equalities Minister said:
“This record commitment underlines the Scottish Government's
commitment to a fairer, more inclusive Scotland where disabled
people can participate, contribute and thrive.
“It will strengthen the voice, capacity and influence of DPOs as
well as supporting delivery of our Disability Equality Plan.
“We are very grateful for the important work that DPOS and other
advocacy bodies do in helping to remove barriers and advancing
equality - their efforts are vital to systemic change and
ensuring disabled people's voices shape decisions. Our delivery
for 2026/27 reflects a strong commitment to DPOs, and we are
working to ensure that this level of support is sustained.”
The Mental Health and Wellbeing project offers support to
disabled people to better understand trauma and mental health,
while equipping them with practical coping strategies to manage
mental distress and mental health conditions.
Tressa Burke, Glasgow Disability Alliance's Chief Executive
Officer, said:
“Glasgow Disability Alliance is delighted that the Scottish
Government has recognised the unique role which Disabled People
Led organisations have in empowering disabled people speak up and
speak out to advance rights. This vital pledge is not only
important in the context of attacks on disability benefits, cuts
to services such as social care and hardening attitudes: it will
also enable DPOs to plan and deliver much needed programmes,
services and supports so that disabled people improve financial
security, increase meaningful participation including having
access to peer support and achieve greater wellbeing and mental
health.”
Heather Fisken, Chief Executive, Inclusion Scotland said:
“Disabled people cannot access everyday services without
additional support, and services specifically for disabled people
continue to be cut. This all means disabled people continue to
fall further behind and cannot play their vital role in society.
This funding will help to address the causes of this and drive
towards equal opportunity and rights fulfilment.'
Lyn Pornaro, Chief Executive Officer, Disability Equality
Scotland said:
“We welcome this investment, which strengthens the voice and
leadership of disabled people in Scotland. By supporting Disabled
People's Organisations, the Scottish Government is helping remove
barriers, advance rights, and ensure disabled people are central
to shaping the policies that affect our lives.”
Background
Scottish Budget 2026 to 2027 -
gov.scot
Disability equality plan -
gov.scot
