There are regional variations in the incidence of disability which may to some extent be due to differences in the age profile of the local population. Higher than average proportions of disabled people are found in Merseyside, North East and Wales and lower ones in the South East and in Outer London. Disabled people are nearly seven times as likely as non-disabled people to be out of work and claiming benefits. However, many would not be able to start work straightaway, mainly due to health reasons. They are also more likely to receive in-work benefits.
Disabled people are twice as likely as non-disabled people to have no qualifications.
This difference is consistent across all age groups. Disabled people are only about half as likely as non-disabled people to be in employment. Employment rates vary greatly between types of disability. They are lowest for people with mental illness and learning disabilities. There is little difference between disabled and non-disabled people with regards to whether their job is permanent.