Abstract copyright UK Data Service and data collection copyright owner.

The main purpose of the research was to establish the prevalence rates of disability within the Northern Ireland household population. That is, the study aimed to provide us with estimates of the numbers of people with different types of disability. The definition of disability for the purposes of the NISALD was based on the concepts of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) which was developed and endorsed by the World Health Organisation. The NISALD series of questionnaires included an initial set of questions that established the type, nature and severity of disabilities. The survey instrument also included questions dedicated to collecting information on the socio-economic characteristics of the respondents and their perceptions of the environment in which they live. Fieldwork for adults and children living in private households was carried out throughout 2006 and was completed in early 2007. Results are planned to be released via a series of bulletins. The first bulletin containing top-line results from NISALD was published on 5 July 2007. Results showed that, in 2006/07, 18% of all people living in private households in Northern Ireland have some degree of disability. The prevalence rate for adults is 21% and 6% for children. If researchers or other interested parties require more in-depth analysis to be carried out requiring the use of string variables such as ‘cause of limitation’, which are not included in the UK Data Archive version, they should contact NISRA to discuss their needs. NISRA may be able to complete analysis on their behalf, thus ensuring any sensitive data remains protected.

Main Topics:

Disability; Activity limitation; Impairment; Health; Disabled; ICF

Simple random sample

Face-to-face interview

Telephone interview