Mental health biggest issue for disability pay recipients

The majority of people who receive a disability allowance believe mental health is the issue that affects them the most — ahead of any mobility or physical issue.

The survey of 3,000 recipients, conducted by the Department of Social Protection, also highlights fears of losing their medical card or social welfare benefits if they get a job, and also obstacles to entering education or the labour market.

Joan O’Donnell, development officer with the Disability Federation of Ireland, said the survey gave “a unique insight into just how much people with disabilities have been left behind in Irish society”.