Call to Action

Scottish Disability Sport 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. 

The four-point Call to Action follows the publication of 2024’s SDS national survey in partnership with Queen Margaret University and supported by Motability Scheme, which highlights the ongoing inequalities experienced by people with a disability and the impact this has on their quality of life.  

Key findings of the survey found that – 

• 40% of people with a disability in Scotland are worried about losing their benefits if they are seen to be more physically active.
• Nearly 1 in 5 respondents do no physical activity each week, yet 73% express a desire to do more.

The results from the survey highlight concerns around the benefits system, rising living costs, public transport and more. Consequently, the SDS four-point Call to Action highlights the following areas to focus on: 

– Plan to Include
– Deliver an inclusive whole system approach
– A benefits and social care system that equips individuals to be active
– Champion intersectionality through a person-centred approach

#InclusiveScotland Campaign

Scottish Disability Sport’s #InclusiveScotland campaign begins in the run-up to the Scottish Parliament elections (May 7th) and concludes just before the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games (23rd July – 2nd August).

This timeframe provides an opportunity to capitalise on two key events in Scotland which have influence and impact throughout sectors.

The #InclusiveScotland campaign isn’t about awareness, it’s about ACTION.

➡️ As candidates campaign across Scotland, we’re asking a simple question:
Will you commit to making sport and physical activity more inclusive across Scotland?

➡️ As Scotland prepares to host the Commonwealth Games, how can the inclusive ambitions of Glasgow 2026 translate into long-term change?

Over the coming weeks, SDS will be sharing insights, case studies and examples of embedded inclusive practice. SDS invites partners, organisations and individuals to join the conversation and advocate for systemic change.

Every person with a disability has the right to be active. This is not a privilege – it is a right. 💜

#InclusiveScotland – Campaign Assets

Scottish Disability Sport encourages others to join the conversation – Scotland must commit to inclusive sport and physical activity. 

Share, engage, join the conversation and advocate for inclusion. 

• SDS four-point Call to Action Graphics are available to download via the links below: 
  • Plan to Include
  • Deliver an inclusive whole system approach
  • A benefits and social care system that equips individuals to be active
  • Champion intersectionality through a person-centred approach