Census data reinforces need to ensure sport and activity is accessible

We know from our research that disabled people participate in sport and activity less than non-disabled people and are also twice as likely to be inactive. That’s why today’s Census release shows that now more than ever the needs of disabled people in sport and activity must be given prominence.

It is not right or fair that disabled people are the least active in our society. One in three households in England include at least one disabled member. That is a huge percentage of the population and reinforces the need to ensure that sport and activity is accessible. 

Sport and activity play an important role in our nation’s health. We want to create a fairer society for everyone. A place where everyone can be active however and wherever they want to be.

The data shows that the overall proportion of disabled people has decreased slightly. However, the rise of 400,000 people since the last Census in 2011 (from 10 million to 10.4 million) shows how vital it is that we close the gap between disabled people's level of inactivity and that of non-disabled people.

You can read our research and insight analysis on the latest Census data release here.