We must consult disabled people

In response to the latest Official for National Statistics (ONS) survey and statistics release, our Director of Policy, Gemma Hope, said:

"The survey shows disabled people understandably still feel very worried by COVID-19. With many disabled people among those who are clinically extremely vulnerable, it is not surprising. The government and the wider public need to be mindful of people’s concerns and the impact of the pandemic on disabled people’s health and wellbeing. 

"Higher food prices and higher gas and electricity prices are clearly having a profound effect on many people. The cost of living crisis is hitting disabled people particularly hard, with nearly three quarters of disabled people reporting higher living costs in the last month. And as we’ve seen throughout the pandemic, twice as many disabled people as non-disabled people are reporting feelings of loneliness. 

"Venues should continue to offer virtual activities for customers to ensure people who may find it difficult to go out still have opportunities to socialise. We’d like to see employers continue to offer the option to work from home. 

"It is vital that disabled people are included in future policy decisions. Governments across the UK must consult with disabled people before taking further steps to reduce restrictions.  In England, the government must liaise with disabled people before it further considers ending mandatory self-isolation after a positive test for COVID-19. Self-isolation currently applies for a minimum of only five days and helps to keeps people safe. 

"Governments across the UK must listen to disabled people. They must work together with disabled people to produce policies that empower people to live, work and socialise as independently as they choose, and as safely as possible.” 

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