The Commission for the Rights of Persons with Disability (CRPD) processed 992 applications and paid out €581,844 in therapy refunds during 2025, the Ministry for Inclusion and Volunteering said in a statement.
The scheme supports families of children with disabilities, regardless of their tax status. The figures were presented to Inclusion and Volunteering Minister Julia Farrugia.
The CRPD also stepped up enforcement against the misuse of Blue Badges last year. More than 1,600 expired or illegally used badges were recovered, while 72 counterfeit badges were confiscated. More than 4,100 letters were sent to people who were still using expired badges.
The commission's enforcement office carried out 52 inspections following reports of abuse and provided 18 hours of training to 176 law enforcement officers.
The annual report also highlights the CRPD's work in raising awareness about disability equality. More than 3,700 people took part in training sessions during 2025, aimed at improving understanding of disability and promoting more inclusive practices in schools, public entities, private organisations and law enforcement agencies.
The CRPD processed 467 complaints or requests concerning alleged disability discrimination, with 71% relating to physical accessibility. The commission said it provided advice, carried out site inspections and intervened in cases involving education, employment, and access to goods and services.
In the planning sector, 2,668 applications were assessed, of which 57% were found to comply with accessibility requirements. A further 165 on-site inspections were carried out to assess compliance with the Access for All Design guidelines.
The commission also continued its work on awareness campaigns, Easy Language training and legislative amendments aimed at strengthening disability inclusion in policies and services.
At European level, the CRPD concluded the E.A.S.E. project, which helped service providers adopt Easy Language practices. It also continued initiatives focused on the inclusion of autistic young people and environmental accessibility.
The commission expanded its workforce and modernised its internal systems during the year. Of its 49 employees, almost half are persons with disabilities.
Farrugia said the figures reflected the government's continued commitment to improving services and strengthening the inclusion of persons with disabilities in society.
CRPD Commissioner Rhoda Garland described 2025 as a year of “progress and collaboration”, saying that consistent enforcement, joint efforts and the continued promotion of disability rights were producing tangible results.