We are proud to share the impact of the Access to Elected Office Fund in supporting disabled people to stand for election and participate fully in political life.
The Scottish Government Fund administrated by Inclusion Scotland, exists to remove the extra impairment-related costs disabled people can face when campaigning in Scottish elections. Our aim is simple: no one should be excluded from politics because of those additional costs of societal barriers.
Impact from recent election support
Through the most recent round of the Fund:
– There were 22 successful applications to the Access to Elected Office Fund
– 5 MSPs were elected who had been supported by the Fund
– These are the first MSPs elected with support from the Fund, building on its established track record at local level
– Since 2017, 38 councillors supported by the Fund have been elected across Scotland
Candidates supported through this round stood in every electoral region in Scotland, demonstrating the national reach of the Fund. Support was provided to candidates across the political spectrum, including party political and independent candidates, reflecting the Fund’s commitment to equitable access rather than political affiliation.
In total, £92,786.93 was distributed, with individual support packages ranging from £559.40 to £18,514.00, depending on each candidate’s circumstances and requirements.
Removing barriers to participation
The Access to Elected Office Fund is open to disabled people who:
– Self-define as disabled under the Equality Act 2010
– Intend to seek selection, have been selected, or plan to stand as an independent candidate
– Meet the relevant election eligibility criteria
The Fund can cover a range of disability-related costs, including:
– Assistive technology
– Coaching
– Communication support, such as BSL interpreters or note-takers
– Personal assistance
– Travel and transport
This support is designed to remove practical barriers and ensure that disabled candidates can campaign on an equal basis.
Looking ahead
The Access to Elected Office Fund will soon reopen to support disabled candidates planning to stand in the 2027 local elections.
We know there is more to do to ensure political representation reflects the diversity of our communities. The continued success of the Fund shows what is possible when barriers are recognised and removed.