Disabled People's Employment

Employing disabled people? Want to expand the pool of talent that’s available to you and take positive steps to diversify your workforce? Or want to support the disabled employees already in your workplace?

The Welsh Government is committed to improving employment opportunities for disabled people and making businesses as inclusive as possible, creating the conditions where all individuals can thrive.

Traditionally employment rates are significantly lower for disabled people than non-disabled people.

Figures for the year ending March 2020 show the employment rate for disabled people aged 16 to 64 in Wales was 50%, compared to 81% of non-disabled people.

Action is needed to close this employment gap. One of the key commitments set out in Welsh Government’s Employability Plan is to increase the number of employers who create inclusive and supportive workplaces for disabled people and those with long-term health conditions.

The information and support presented here encourages and promotes a greater understanding, showing you how you can easily develop your recruitment and employment practices to improve job outcomes and career prospects for disabled people, access an untapped pool of talent, and reap the benefits of a diverse workforce.

Disabled People’s Employment Champions

The Welsh Government has employed a network of Disabled People’s Employment Champions, supported by Business Wales Disabled People’s Employment Advisors, to provide advice, information and support to employers across Wales.

What is it?

This is a unique, free service for all employers in Wales regardless of size. The Champions can liaise with you in a way which suits you and your business need on a one to one basis or at staff meetings. 

Whether you’re looking to inject new talent into your team, retain existing staff who have become disabled, or want to ensure your workplace and HR policies are inclusive the Champions can help. They can provide advice on this and any of the following:

• Inclusive recruitment;
• Financial support;
• Practical advice on staff retention.

What’s in it for me?

By simply engaging with a Champion you have the opportunity to access a tailored package of support for your business – helping it become a leader in inclusivity. 

Any business in Wales interested in increasing the diversity of their workforce and finding out more about the many benefits of and support available for employing disabled people can contact the Champions at: DPEC@gov.wales.