Evaluation of local initiatives for disability pensioners

This report evaluates six out of eight projects which were launched on the basis of the 2010 agreement on the public pool of funds. The projects aimed at promoting local integration of people on disability pensions. The projects were to contribute to increased quality of life and social activities and competences for people on disability pensions. The report particularly examines the effects within four themes: A healthier lifestyle and better health, creating social networks, personal development and creating contacts with the labour market. The analyses are based on questionnaire data collected at the start and finish, respectively, from disability pensioners who participated in the projects. The evaluation examines whether the projects benefited participants within the four theme areas. Generally, the report shows that the projects had small or no statistically significant results for the participants within the four theme areas. However, there was a significant improvement in participants’ psychological health and general satisfaction with life during the projects.