Inclusion Scotland and Self-Directed Support Scotland (SDSS) have published a new report exploring how changes to Self-directed Support (SDS) Direct Payments are affecting disabled people across Scotland.
Based on lived experience evidence, the report shows how reductions in funding, tightening eligibility and changes to support are impacting daily life, wellbeing and independence.
“Pushed back into crisis”
The report, “Pushed back into crisis”, draws on responses from disabled people, unpaid carers and others supporting people who use Direct Payments.
Many respondents described:
– reduced budgets and support hours
– loss of flexibility
– increased stress and uncertainty
– reduced participation in community life
– growing pressure on families
Some reported being unable to meet basic needs or maintain routines, with increased isolation and reduced independence.
A gap between policy and practice
While SDS is built on the premise of choice and control, the findings show a gap between these principles and people’s experiences.
Participants raised concerns about unclear decision-making, stressful reviews and a growing focus on cost rather than outcomes. Many also described support becoming more crisis-driven, with preventative support reduced.
Wider impacts and next steps
Cuts are also affecting families, unpaid carers and the Personal Assistant workforce, with knock-on impacts across wider systems.
The report highlights the need to:
– protect flexibility, choice and control
– improve transparency and communication
– recognise the value of preventative and community-based support
– centre lived experience in decision-making
At a time of growing pressure on support systems, the report calls for action to ensure disabled people’s rights, independence and participation are upheld.
Read the report
You can explore the findings in a format that works for you:
Click here to read the full report