Changes to flagship disability scheme don't go far enough, campaigners say
Summary
Critics say the UK's "Disability Confident" scheme for encouraging businesses to hire and support disabled workers is still not effective, even after recent updates. The scheme allows employers to self-certify as inclusive without requiring them to actually employ disabled people. Changes to the scheme include a new two-year limit for staying at the basic membership level and added support for small businesses.Key Facts
- "Disability Confident" is a UK government program that helps businesses hire and support disabled workers.
- The scheme has three levels: "committed" (Level 1), "employer" (Level 2), and "leader" (Level 3).
- Joining the program is voluntary and uses a badge system to show employer commitment.
- Critics say the lack of strict audits allows companies to be accredited without hiring disabled people.
- New reforms set a two-year limit for staying at Level 1 to push companies to make real progress.
- The reforms offer additional support for small businesses and promote peer-to-peer learning.
- There is still no requirement for companies to meet hiring targets for disabled employees.
- The UK government's disability minister says the changes aim to increase disabled employment rates.
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