Disability Representation In Holyrood

Scotland has reached an important milestone in political representation. Following the most recent election, the country now has more disabled Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) than ever before. While this marks meaningful progress, campaigners and politicians alike agree that the journey toward true representation is far from complete.
According to Scotland’s 2022 Census, approximately 1.3 million people—around 24% of the population—live with a long-term health condition or disability that affects their daily activities. Yet disabled MSPs currently make up only about 7% of the Scottish Parliament. The gap highlights a continuing challenge: ensuring that the nation’s political institutions reflect the diversity of the people they serve.
For newly elected MSP Kayleigh Kinross-O’Neill, accessibility was a major concern before arriving at Holyrood. As a wheelchair user, she was encouraged to find that parliamentary staff proactively discussed her requirements and implemented practical adjustments before her first day. Features such as automatic doors, emergency evacuation plans, and provisions for remote voting have helped create a more accessible working environment.
These changes demonstrate the value of designing workplaces around people’s needs rather than expecting individuals to adapt to existing barriers. Accessibility measures that may seem simple can have a significant impact on a person’s ability to participate fully in public life.
Scotland has also taken a pioneering approach through its Access to Elected Office Fund, which helps disabled candidates meet the additional costs associated with running for election. The fund can cover expenses such as transport, interpreters, support workers, and other forms of assistance that enable candidates to campaign effectively. During the recent election cycle, 22 individuals received support through the programme, with five going on to win seats in parliament.
However, accessibility is not only about physical barriers. Hidden disabilities, including dyslexia and neurodivergent conditions, can also create challenges in political life. MSP Katie Hagmann has spoken about the importance of recognising these less visible needs. Adaptive software and other support tools are not luxuries; they are essential resources that enable many people to perform their roles effectively.
The Scottish Parliament has increasingly acknowledged this broader understanding of accessibility. Efforts now extend beyond ramps and automatic doors to include considerations such as lighting, acoustics, and sensory environments. These changes reflect a growing awareness that inclusion must address a wide range of experiences and needs.
Despite the progress, disability advocates argue that representation remains disproportionately low. Disabled people continue to be underrepresented compared with their share of the population. While the increase in disabled MSPs is encouraging, it is only one step toward a more inclusive democracy.
Representation matters because it brings diverse perspectives into decision-making and helps ensure that policies reflect the realities of people’s lives. When disabled individuals are able to participate fully in politics, society benefits from a richer range of experiences and insights.
Scotland’s recent progress shows what can be achieved when barriers are identified and addressed. The challenge now is to build on that momentum, ensuring that accessibility and inclusion become standard practice rather than special accommodations. Only then can political institutions truly reflect the communities they represent.
This version is written in a neutral, informative blog style suitable for a general audience, advocacy organisation, or public affairs website.