By Beds SU
Tuesday, 12 November 2024
There comes a moment in all of our lives when we consider seeking employment be it for everyday living, saving ambitions or to support us during our studies or for the career we have been working towards.
There can be hurdles for everyone in life finding employment but for individuals with disabilities there are extra challenges to overcome.
According to the most recent Government Employment for Disabled People Report.
- In the second quarter of 2024 5.5 million disabled people were reported to be in employment in the UK. Up by 310,000 on 2023.
- However, the rate of people with a disability in employment was 53.0% vs. 81.6% of non-disabled people.
- Between 2014 and 2023, there were more disabled workers (8.6%) moving out of work than non-disabled workers (4.9%).
Although the data shows there is an increase in employment opportunities for people with disabilities the gap between those with and without a disability is significant and further highlights the needs for better working rights and support to be put into action.
Commitment to closing this gap is on going with for example as part of Scope's manifesto for supporting all aspects of life for those with a disability is a focus on employment. They run a number of schemes dedicated to getting people into work. You can read more here.
They also highlight the core areas that result in disabled workers leaving employment:
- Negative attitudes and discrimination towards disabled people at work
- A lack of reasonable adjustments and flexible working
- Inadequate employment support programmes
- Poor support during periods of sickness and inflexible return-to-work processes.
Scope along with other charities such as Mind and Disability Rights UK are committed to getting the Government to reform The Employment Reform bill and along with organisations making greater commitments to offering opportunities for all.
As your Students' Union we are mindful some of our members have disabilities, both hidden and visible and we want to ensure we are offering a platform for students with disabilities to voice their needs, concerns and ideas as to how we and the University can better the opportunities available for employment whilst studying and beyond.
To kick start this ambition we are hosting, along with the University Careers team an informal Students with Disabilities forum on Monday 18 November. You can read more here and secure your place.
If you have a story on the matter you want to share for the benefit of students then email us and a member of your Student media hub will be in touch.
Most importantly if you need support please reach out to our advice and support team.