National Transitions to Adulthood Strategy for young disabled people: equality impact assessment

Executive summary

The National Transitions to Adulthood Strategy for Young Disabled People sets out a vision for a Scotland where young disabled people aged 14–25 feel confident, empowered, and supported to shape their own path to adulthood. Developed through extensive engagement with young disabled people, families, and professionals, the Strategy embeds the Seven Principles of Good Transitions and calls for a coordinated, cross-sector approach to improving outcomes.

This Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) evaluates the Strategy’s impacts across protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010, with appropriate focus on age and disability. Through the Strategy’s development persistent challenges were identified, including service fragmentation, inconsistent eligibility criteria, and a lack of person-centred planning. Although the Strategy is intended to be for all young disabled people, there are data gaps and not many specific actions for some protected characteristics. Those with multiple types of disadvantages are more at risk of indirect discrimination and unequal outcomes.

To mitigate these risks, the Strategy commits to an initial progress report of the Strategy’s implementation including reviewing its direct and indirect impacts, improved data collection, and continued engagement with lived-experience individuals. The Strategy has the potential to transform transitions for young disabled people, but its success depends on robust implementation, inclusive engagement, and a commitment to continuous improvement. By addressing identified gaps and embedding lived experience, the Strategy can contribute meaningfully to Scotland’s broader goals of equality, inclusion, and human dignity.