The skills of disabled people at work have been showcased to businesses at an event in Monmouth.
Employers from South East Wales were invited to the Shire Hall, Agincourt Square, on Friday (27 January 2023) to learn more disability inclusion in the workplace alongside how to attract, recruit and retain a wealth of untapped talent.
Supported by local MP David Davies in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and Monmouthshire County Council, attendees were urged to sign up to the Disability Confident scheme.
Launched in 2013, the free UK Government-led scheme has three levels and encourages employers to think differently about disability and take action to improve recruitment of disabled job seekers.
Mr Davies, who opened the event, said: “Disabled people make up a dedicated, loyal and skilled workforce who could help businesses in a time of increased competition for good employees and avoid them getting caught out by skills shortages.
“Unfortunately, there are various myths surrounding disabled people taking additional sickness leave, costing money to have workplace adjustments and creating a fear of discrimination claims. All of these assumptions are incorrect.
“The voluntary Disability Confident initiative aims to positivity change attitudes, behaviours and cultures, not just within the workplace, but in business networks, their supply chains and communities.”
Guest speakers included Abergavenny resident Daniel Biddle, the most seriously injured survivor of the 7/7 London bombings who runs the National Diversity Employment and Advisory Service (NDEAS).
He shared his personal story, outlining the business advantages of an inclusive workforce, and urged employers not to miss out on the financial, operational and social benefits that being a Disability Confident employer can bring.
Attendees were also given a presentation on Access to Work, a DWP programme focused on helping to overcome barriers disabled people may encounter in employment, before hearing from the Positive Action team at Gwent Police on their journey as a Disability Confident employer.
An employment information fair followed, offering businesses the chance to talk to a range of disability organisations and stakeholders, as well as network with other local employers.
For more information about the Disability Confident scheme, visit gov.uk/disability-confident