Disability

The way in which 'disability' is defined varies but generally involves the presence of a long-term health condition that limits daily activities. In the Scottish Census of 2011, approximately 20% of all Scots reported having a long-term health problem or disability that limits their day-to-day activities either 'a little' or 'a lot'.

Percentage of people with day-to-day activities limited by long-term health problem or disability, Scotland, 2011 In Glasgow, 10% reported having a long-term health problem or disability that limits their day-to-day activities 'a little', and 13% reported that their condition limited them 'a lot'.

Percentage of people with day-to-day activities limited by long-term health problem or disability, Glasgow, 2011 In Glasgow, as well as in Scotland as a whole, there is a clear correlation between age and the prevalence of disability. Glasgow has the highest level of disability across age groups when comparing to other Scottish cities.

The Annual Population Survey's disability category includes people aged 16-64 with a long-term condition which substantially limits their day-to-day activities (Equality Act Core disabled), and those who have a long-term disability which affects the kind or amount of work they might do (work-limiting disabled). Using this definition, 24% of Glasgow's working age population has a disability, which is a higher prevalence than in other, comparable UK cities. Information about employment rates for disabled people in Glasgow can be found here.  

The UK-wide Family Resources Survey (FRS) in 2004/5 found an overall prevalence of disability in childhood of 7.3%, as defined by the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA). The rate for Scotland was slightly higher at 8.5%. The majority of children with a disability defined this way are found in the 12-15 age group, and the most prevalent disabilities are those affecting memory, concentration and learning. See the page on childhood disability  and on learning disabilities for further details and information.  

In 2019, 1266 children in Glasgow attended schools that provide additional support for learning (ASL).