A new national survey conducted by Scottish Disability Sport in partnership with Queen Margaret University Centre for Health, Activity and Rehabilitation Research (CHEARR) has 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. The survey, which gathered responses from 335 individuals, sheds light on the complex barriers faced by people with a disability when it comes to engaging in sport and physical activity—highlighting concerns around the benefits system, rising living costs, public transport and more. 

Key findings from the survey show that nearly 1 in 5 respondents do no physical activity each week, yet 73% expressed a desire to do more. Despite 95% agreeing that sport and physical activity benefit their mental health and wellbeing, less than half have received encouragement from a health or social care professional to be more active. In addition, over 70% of respondents said public transport is not a suitable alternative for supporting their participation—pointing to broader access and infrastructure challenges across urban and rural communities. 

This landmark survey aims to amplify the voices of disabled people in Scotland and promote evidence-based decision-making across sport, health, education and social policy. The findings are being shared with government, local councils, funders, and national partners to help shape inclusive strategies that remove barriers and improve opportunities for people with a disability in Scotland to engage in physical activity and sport. 

View the key findings here.

A message from Maree Todd MSP, the Minister for Drug and Alcohol Policy and Sport, on the importance, impact and next steps of the National Survey –