Disability support
Your rights in the workplace
The Equality Act 2010 defines disability as “anyone with a physical or mental impairment, diagnosed or not, that has a ‘substantial’ and ‘long-term’ negative effect on your ability to do normal daily activities”.
This covers a range of conditions, injuries and illnesses including, but not limited to, mental health, chronic illness or pain, neurodivergence and learning disabilities or difficulties. Research from Scope shows that:
16 million people identify as Disabled, making up 24% of the UK population
The importance of disability support in the workplace
It can be tough to work in our industry, especially for those facing additional barriers as a Disabled person. The lack of understanding and inclusivity that can prevent many from entering and remaining in work, results in the results in the underrepresentation that exists and the substantial loss of diverse talent.
The knock-on effects for the individual can be wide-ranging; impacting on their mental, physical and financial wellbeing.
Our previous research
We know from our Money Matters Report, and 2022 Looking Glass Report that:
57% of Disabled respondents were finding it very or “quite difficult to manage financially”
Disabled or Neurodivergent respondents had significantly lower wellbeing and significantly higher loneliness compared to others in the industry
A report from the Sir Lenny Henry Centre and Birmingham University revealed that most Disabled people in our industry have access needs or require reasonable adjustments. However, only one in five are using Access to Work, a government scheme which can offer practical support and grants to help you get or stay in work.
Effective support for Disabled and neurodivergent individuals
Effective inclusivity must be a collective effort. However, an important part of that process is Disabled people being encouraged to advocate for themselves, as well as being offered the resources and support they need to do so. With that in mind, here are some helpful first steps:
Your access needs and employer inclusivity
Applications and other support
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Access to work
Government grants to remove barriers that Disabled, neurodivergent and those with health conditions face in starting or staying in paid work
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Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
Support for working age adults with the extra costs of living due to a health condition or a disability
24 hour Support Line
You can also reach out our 24-hour Support Line on 0800 054 0000 to speak to someone right now.
We can offer a listening ear, legal advice, financial advice, online Cognitive Behavioural Therapy courses covering topics such as ADHD, chronic conditions and mental health, and six free sessions of counselling.
