Employers should back International Day of Disabled People

Employers need to understand the economic, strategic and legal benefits of getting it right on disability, says the Employers’ Forum on Disability (EFD) today (3 December 2009).

Responding to research published today by Remploy, to mark International Day of Disabled People (IDDP), EFD’s Chief Executive Susan Scott-Parker said: “EFD has nearly 400 members who employ around 20% of the UK’s workforce. They tell us that getting it right on disability brings benefits across their business.

“For example, managers that are trained in managing disability well are also better at managing and reducing sickness rates.”

The research, which was carried out by ComRes, found that:

• More than two thirds of SME employers say they do not need support on legal requirements, yet only half were familiar with the provisions of the Disability Discrimination Act.
• Only 8% of these businesses that do not employ disabled people have any interest in finding out more about people with disabilities joining their companies.

Commented Scott-Parker: “This research demonstrates that too many employers are missing out on the talents of disabled employees and the spending power of disabled customers. One in three people are either disabled or close to someone who is, and so disability affects all employers.

“Awareness days like International Day of Disabled People are an excellent way for employers to refresh their approach to disability."

IDDP is organised by the UN, and aims to promote an understanding of disability issues, the rights of people with disabilities and the benefits of integrating disabled people into every aspect of the their communities.

Remploy, which is one of the UK's leading providers of employment services and employment to people with disabilities will be celebrating at 73 locations around Britain in its factories, recruitment branches and offices where it will be holding Open Days to challenge people's perceptions about disability.