Ahead of the World Day for Overcoming Extreme Poverty on 17 October 2024, COFACE’s member, APF France Handicap, highlighted the severe poverty affecting people with disabilities, with 2 million living below the poverty line for life. This monetary poverty is compounded by poor living conditions, including deprivation of essential goods and services, as noted in a DREES report.
Statistics reveal that 57% of disabled people under 60 belong to low-income households, compared to 38% of the general population. Disability often incurs additional expenses, only partially compensated by existing aid.
Despite available benefits, the standard of living for disabled individuals remains lower than that of non-disabled people. The association also draws attention to the stigmatisation of poverty and advocates for inclusive policies, underscoring the economic benefits of combating poverty for society.
Some key figures to highlight the urgency of addressing this situation effectively:
- Financial vulnerability: 56% of disabled people cannot cover an unexpected expense of €1,000, compared to 32% of the general population.
- Heating insecurity: 25% cannot adequately heat their homes, versus 11% of the general population.
- Debt and utility payments: 19% struggle to pay rent, loans, or utility bills, compared to 11% overall.
- Leisure activities: 36% cannot afford regular paid leisure activities—double the rate of the general population (15%).
- Social isolation: 19% cannot host friends or family for a meal or drink, compared to 6% of the population at large.
Read more here (FR).
