Funding Call To Aid ‘Trapped’ Disabled

Major investment over a 15-year period is needed to help hundreds of disabled people trapped in their homes or confined to care, says a new report.

The Disability Rights Commission (DRC) today published research which shows just 20 per cent of Scotland’s 36,000 wheelchair users have adapted homes leaving many forced to stay in care homes.

The Independent Living in Scotland study estimates there are 62,000 households in Scotland where someone cannot wash themselves because they need an adapted bathroom.

The study says the situation is becoming critical, with more people confined to their homes. At the rate accessible homes are being built, the DRC believes it will take 50 years to house Scotland’s existing wheelchair users.

The Scottish Parliament is being urged to set up an independent living task force to enable disabled people to participate fully in Scottish life.

Sir Bert Massie, chairman of the DRC, said: “

As well as the obvious benefits for individuals from independent living, there is also a need to recognise the economic benefits – for example [in] getting disabled people into employment or into their own homes instead of residential care.

“Economically, Scotland is at a crossroads, with an ageing population and increased competition. We simply cannot afford this wasted talent.”

Sir Bert also called for major investment in housing, transport, education and in the benefits system in Scotland.

The study also discusses policies relating to independent living, outlines an independent living strategy and makes recommendations for the scope of a task force.