Extra cost of disability in UK rises 12% in five years according to new study published ahead of Commons vote.
Extra Cost of Disability in UK Rises 12% in Five Years, Says Scope
What happened
A new report from disability charity Scope has revealed that the additional cost of living with a disability in the UK has surged by almost 12% since 2020. The average disabled person now pays around £1,300 more per month for essential goods and services, with some facing costs exceeding £2,000. These include expenses for heating, specialist equipment, accessible transport, and personal support. Scope attributes the increase to inflation, rising energy bills and ongoing economic instability, arguing that disabled people are facing a “deepening crisis”.
Why it matters
The findings underline the disproportionate impact of the cost-of-living crisis on disabled people, many of whom are already more likely to live in poverty. Despite longstanding calls for reforms to disability benefits, campaigners say support has failed to keep pace with rising costs. This comes amid controversial welfare cuts being pushed through Parliament, prompting warnings that disabled people risk being left behind by the current government policy.
The political backdrop
The report lands at a politically sensitive moment. Labour is already facing pressure from within its own party over disability welfare reforms and the broader direction of the welfare bill. Meanwhile, ministers claim they are tackling inequality, citing upcoming support measures. But campaigners argue that this report exposes the urgent need for targeted, long-term investment. With a general election on the horizon, how parties respond could shape their standing with disabled voters and advocacy groups.
The reaction
Scope’s CEO described the figures as “staggering and shameful”, urging immediate government action to reassess disability payments. Labour’s disability spokesperson said the figures proved the welfare system was “not fit for purpose”. A government spokesperson said they were “listening carefully” and pointed to upcoming targeted support in the poverty strategy.
What next
MPs across the political spectrum are expected to raise the findings in upcoming debates on the welfare bill. Scope is calling for the government to build “a disability price index” to ensure future payments reflect real-world costs. The charity is also pushing for increased access to affordable and inclusive services, including energy and transport. With the Disability Strategy due for review later this year, the cost crisis is likely to dominate discussions.
