An inclusive workplace is a great employer

When it comes to looking for jobs, the problems everyone faces are made even harder for people with disabilities. Many employers simply don’t want to manage what they see as risks or costs. Almost half of the discrimination which is reported by young people with disabilities comes from the workplace. The huge range of barriers faced by people with disabilities include, but aren’t limited to:

• Discrimination and bias around the cost of employing them or productivity
• Cultural and social barriers from other people in the workplace
• Location, access, and transport issues
• Technological issues
• An inflexible workplace
• Lack of career growth due to low-skill roles and being passed for promotions, training etc.

The person applying for a role has often spent years working out how to overcome them. Their success in life is a testament to beating barriers. So why then are employers so biased about these barriers? The extremely high rate of disabled unemployment is a sign of the bias they face. It is so bad that people with less apparent or hidden disability often won’t mention it.

But, by being open and honest about these issues the community at large can begin to force change, so make your voice heard. These are a few things that help create an inclusive workplace

Adaptable workplaces

Post COVID, the increase in job flexibility for people has increased hugely. Work from home changed hours, and part-time/shared roles have become the standard. People with disabilities in the comfort of their own homes can fulfil roles within their skillset very easily. There is no reason for these options not to extend to every person who can achieve the role.

Also, slightly changing equipment (height adjustable desks, screen readers etc) or shuffling minor duties between staff are great for creating an accessible workplace.

Diversity and inclusion

It is vital within work environments to be inclusive of everyone. This is needed for a safe, happy, and diverse workforce. Use training, so teams understand the challenges of everyone, especially people with disabilities, to best support them. This also opens up more opportunities for people in the future as you create a viable, inclusive environment.

Create a good environment

Making sure that people feel wanted and belong is a great way to help employees thrive. When an employee starts, you can assign a buddy, extend invitations to lunches and meetings, and help them thrive in every situation by meeting their needs. This involves showing empathy as a leader and forging a strong culture among everyone.

For people with a disability (or anyone who is at risk of discrimination in the workplace) make sure to enforce and uphold diversity and inclusion across the board. Celebrate everyone equally and fairly, share experiences positively, and listen to everyone.

As a member of the Australian Network on Disability, we are focussed on our purpose of empowering lives together, helping people from all walks of life to focus on their abilities rather than their disability and encouraging workplaces to create a great workplace that are inclusive and supporting.