The Business Case
It makes good business sense to meet the needs of your disabled applicants, employees and customers. Here's why.
Access an £80 billion market
The spending power of disabled people in the Uk is estimated to be around £80 billion per annum. If you are positive about disability you will encourage disabled people, their friends and families to spend their money on your goods and services.
Get the best person for the job
People with disabilities have the same skills, talents and experience as the rest of the population. By encouraging them to work for you, you will access a significant pool of potential talent.
Have committed and competent employees
Research shows that disabled people tend to have better attendance and health and safety records with a strong commitment to work. They also tend to stay with their employers longer.
Save costs
Retaining an employee who becomes ill or disabled generally costs less than recruiting and training someone new.
With age comes disability
The Uk has an ageing population and so more and more of us are living and working with a disability. Most disabled people acquire their disability during their working life - only 17% are born with a disability.
By 2006, 45-59 year olds will form the largest group in the labour force.
By 2010, 40 percent of the UK population will be over 45 - the age at which your chance of living with a disability or health condition sharply increases.
Adjustments can benefit everyone
Disabled staff are in an excellent position to understand and identify new ways of delivering your products and services to benefit everyone.
E.g. Shallow supermarket trolleys were originally introduced with disabled people in mind - they are now as popular as the deeper trolley.
Enhance your reputation
If you are known to be a good employer who values staff and treats people fairly, you will find it easier to recruit and retain staff. As a result, they will be more productive at work and give better performance helping to improve your bottom line profitability.
Reduce the risk of legal action
No one wants to be taken to an employment tribunal; they are time consuming and expensive, and can result in bad publicity for your business. It makes good sense to ensure your business meets legislative requiremnts and, perhaps most important of all, to adopt a fair and positive attitude