Welsh elections financial help for disabled candidates
This follows the duty of Welsh ministers under the Elections and Elected Bodies (Wales) Act 2024 to create such a scheme.
The initiative was supported by members last Tuesday.
Disabled candidates often face unavoidable costs like accessible transport, specialist equipment, or personal support.
The scheme, in line with the Draft Disabled People's Rights Plan for 2025 to 2035, aims to remove these barriers and promote equal opportunity.
Disability Wales will independently administer the scheme, ensuring impartiality and confidentiality.
Following the social model of disability, the scheme focuses on removing barriers rather than defining limitations.
It will offer comprehensive support, from identifying needs to funding approved adjustments, throughout the election period.
The scheme will be open for applications on September 1, 2025, and includes help identifying necessary support, assistance with completing applications, fair assessment of requests, and provision of approved funding or services.
This initiative reflects a shared commitment to breaking down barriers and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to participate fully in public life.
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