Education and support vital to those with disabilities – ESRI

The ESRI is highlighting the importance of social supports and access to education in the lives of people with disabilities in Ireland.

New research by the institute shows participation by people with disabilities in the workforce is low in Ireland when compared with other European countries.

It also finds children with special educational needs are more likely to dislike school than their peers and to have fewer friends.

A research conference taking place today titled 'Disability through the Lifecourse' will discuss the institute's findings.

Research Analyst with the ESRI, Joanne Banks, said access to education and the labour market is vital to the standard of living of those with disabilities.

"The overarching aim [of] the conference, really, highlights the importance of awareness and social supports in improving the lives of [those with] disabilities in Ireland, and in gaining access to education and remaining [there]," she said.

"And the same with the labour market, and just participating in adult life more generally."