Case Study: Empowering Individuals Through Supported Volunteering
We’re thrilled to announce that Surrey Choices has successfully renewed its Disability Confident Leader status! This achievement extends our commitment to disability inclusion until January 2027. This isn’t just a badge to us; it signifies our dedication to championing inclusivity and demonstrating best practices for other employers.
The Disability Confident scheme is a voluntary framework designed to help businesses unlock the potential of employing disabled people. Developed in collaboration with employers and the disabled community, the scheme offers a structured approach with three levels. Surrey Choices has reached the highest level, Disability Confident Leader, demonstrating our ongoing commitment and proactive approach.
So, what does our Disability Confident Leader status mean in practice? We offer taster days and shadowing experiences, providing potential candidates with a real insight into working with us. We also offer alternative interview methods, such as work trials, allowing candidates to demonstrate their skills in a practical setting.
We’re committed to making reasonable adjustments at every stage of recruitment and onboarding. This might involve providing interview questions in advance, allowing a support worker to accompany a candidate to an interview, or any other adjustments necessary to ensure a fair and equitable process. Our Equal Opportunities Policy further reinforces our commitment to equality and diversity.
Our commitment extends to our existing staff too. While 17% of respondents in our last Equality & Diversity survey reported having a disability, we believe the actual figure may be higher. We encourage employees to seek support for disabilities or mental health concerns, and we are dedicated to providing reasonable adjustments. Our goal is a supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable and valued.
Our dedication to disability inclusion was recognised in 2021 when Surrey Choices won the Employer of People with a Disability award at the National Learning Disabilities and Autism Awards. This honour was especially meaningful as it was supported by testimonials from disabled staff, including an autistic employment support specialist who helps others find fulfilling work.
As a Disability Confident Leader, Surrey Choices understands the numerous benefits of employing disabled people. We draw from the widest possible pool of talent, securing skilled, loyal and hardworking staff. We believe that a diverse workforce strengthens our organisation, bringing different perspectives and experiences that enrich our work.
We encourage other businesses to join us on this journey; by working together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable employment landscape for everyone. Becoming Disability Confident is not just the right thing to do; it’s good for business.
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