Research and policy

Scope carries out research in order to develop policy so we can campaign to create a fairer society for disabled people.

1. Research: Our research uncovers the facts about life for disabled people and their families.
2. Policy: We use the results of our research to produce policy recommendations for government and business.
3. Campaigns: Our policy informs our relentless campaigning to change attitudes and help ensure everyday equality for disabled people.

Our work includes quantitative (facts and figures) and qualitative (people's experiences) research, which gives us a unique insight into disabled people's experiences, needs and ambitions. We also measure the impact of our work.

We provide a platform for disabled people’s voices and experiences and support young disabled people to campaign on the issues which matter to them.

Research and policy areas

Our current research and policy work is focused on 3 key areas:

Early years and growing up

We want to ensure all disabled children can fulfil their potential.

We also campaign so that disabled young people have the right support as they grow up.

Living independently

We campaign so that disabled people can live independent, connected and confident lives.

We work to:

• tackle negative attitudes towards disability
• ensure disabled people can access the right care and support
• improve travel and transport for disabled people
• make sure innovations in digital technology include disabled people.

Financial security

Disabled people face extra costs of an average £583 a month related to their impairment or condition. We want to reduce this financial penalty faced by disabled people.

We also work to tackle the barriers disabled people face getting and staying in a job. We have produced a guide for employers about reporting on disability and employment.

Our campaigns

• Now is the time
• Disability Gamechangers
• End the Awkward
• Scope for Change
• Work With Me
• Extra Costs
• Let's Talk
• Disability Perception Gap

Research panel

Scope's research panel is one of our most important tools for investigating disabled people's real-life experiences. The research panel is a group of our customers and supporters who help us create and improve our services, advice and campaigns.

Find out more about and sign up for the research panel

Community Engagement programme

Scope's Community Engagement programme empowers local people to take action and drive change in their local communities.

Community Engagement programme