Developing an approach to understanding disabled people’s needs and costs

Since 2006, CRSP has undertaken work looking at what people need for a minimum socially acceptable standard of living, which sets out a Minimum Income Standard (MIS) for different households in the UK.  MIS uses a consensual approach, with needs identified through discussion with members of the public, and at a level to enable participation in society. The team has used the MIS approach to start looking at the additional needs and costs associated with some types of disability or condition, such as vision impairment and autism. This provides useful information and insights, but there is an interest in looking more broadly than by single condition, while recognising the challenges given that needs and resources required can vary widely between and within different disability groups.

This study explores the potential for drawing on the MIS approach to research needs and additional or different financial costs across disabilities and conditions. It involved consultation through a series of workshops and an advisory session with individuals from a range of organisations and experts-by-experience. Discussions provided feedback on research approaches, conceptual and practical considerations in taking forward such research, and the importance of flexibility, inclusivity and collaboration.  The consultation was Scotland focussed but has relevance across the UK and beyond.