Dean, who has learning difficulties and epilepsy, works at a local garage. His employer, Dave Barclay says "Everybody should have the right to work. Dean is keen to learn and continually growing in confidence "
Research shows that employing people with disabilities makes very sound business sense.
The facts:
- Almost one in five people within the working age population of Great Britain have a disability (Source: Labour Force Survey, 2006)
- There are currently 1.2 million disabled people who are available to and want to work. (Source: Labour Force Survey, 2006)Only 17% of disabled people were born with their disability (Source: Institute for Public Policy Research article Work for disabled people)
- The estimated spending power of disabled adults in the UK is £80 billion per year. (Source: Family Resources Survey 2003-04)
- The benefit from a single person working for a full year rather than claiming incapacity benefit has been estimated at £20,000 for the Exchequer and over £33,000 for the economy (Source: Oxford Economics (2007) Mental Health and the UK Economy)
- A survey of business managers found that both the performance and the attendance records of disabled employees were the same or better than other employees (Source: IFF Research, 1990)
The demographics:
- Our population is aging. In 2002, 33% of the UK population was aged 50 and over. By 2031, this is expected to rise to 46% (Source: Office for National Statistics, 2004)
- With age - disability increases
- Diversity is not an option - it's a necessity.
Recruitment issues:
- How much does recruitment cost your organisation? By working with Shaw Trust we can provide you with a 'risk free' recruitment service.
- What level of staff turnover, sickness and absence do you have? Employers report less staff turnover amongst people with disabilities and, by adopting diversity your workforce, will be a true reflection of the community and your customers
- How much do you spend on training and development each year? Our candidates often come with a development or action plan which identifies the training necessary for them. We usually provide pre-placement training for the individual and, where appropriate, can even access post-placement training support.
