Connect joins Disability Confident scheme

We are pleased to announce that we have joined the government’s Disability Confident scheme, and we are now a Disability Confident Committed Employer.

There are more than 13 million disabled people in the UK, but nearly 80% do not have a job. The government aims to get over one million disabled people into work by 2020 in order to halve the disability gap, and the Disability Confident scheme is a key part of its strategy to achieve this.

Through the scheme, we will work to ensure that disabled people and those with long-standing health conditions can fulfil their potential and realise their aspirations. Recognition of this scheme will also help us to recruit and retain from the widest pool of talent, improve employee morale and help develop our skills and experience.

The scheme has three levels and has been developed by employers and representatives working towards employing, supporting and promoting disabled people in the workplace.

So far, we have committed to Level 1 – granting us Disability Confident Committed Employer status.

We are committed to evaluating the following areas over the next 12 months to ensure:

•  Our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible

•  Opportunities are accessible to all

•  Company information is provided in an accessible format

•  Applications can be accepted in alternative formats

•  Job shadowing opportunities are accessible to all

•  Existing employees who acquire a disability or long-standing health condition are supported, enabling them to stay in work

•  Anticipating and providing reasonable adjustments, as required

To demonstrate our continued commitment to the scheme, we will also review the criteria that is required for us to attain Level 2 certification.

Connect’s Corporate Services Manager, Beth James says: “One in six people of working age in the UK has either a disability or long-standing health condition. Many have excellent qualifications and skills, but face barriers in their lives including employment. Becoming a Disability Confident Committed Employer will allow us to play our part in changing attitudes and building disability confidence.”

For more information about the Disability Confident scheme, visit the government’s campaign website.