Navigating the Employment Landscape: Guidance for Disabled Job Seekers

When it comes to seeking employment, it's important for all job seekers, including those with disabilities, to find a workplace that values their unique skills and provides them with an inclusive environment.

By law, all employers must treat job applicants equitably, regardless of their health conditions. However, some employers go above and beyond in demonstrating their commitment to hiring and supporting disabled employees. Here are some insights to guide you in finding such disability-friendly employers:

​

Disability Confident Employers

The UK government runs the Disability Confident scheme, which encourages employers to recruit and retain disabled people and those with health conditions. The scheme has three levels: Committed (Level 1), Employer (Level 2), and Leader (Level 3). Look for these symbols on job adverts and websites. Employers at the Leader level have been independently assessed to ensure they meet their commitments to disabled people.

Specialized Job Sites

There are several job sites specifically aimed at connecting disabled job seekers with inclusive employers:

• Careers with Disabilities: Provides information, support, and connection for disabled jobseekers and inclusive employers.

• Disabled Workers Co-operative: Advertises job vacancies.

• EmployAbility: Has opportunities for disabled and dyslexic students and graduates.

• Evenbreak: Matches disabled jobseekers with employers aiming to build a diverse workforce.

• Jobs4Disability: An accessibility-friendly job board that advertises jobs from companies with transparent, diverse, and inclusive recruitment strategies.

• Podium: Offers skilled disabled people freelance opportunities working from home or on projects.

Graduate Opportunities

For students and recent graduates, exploring graduate schemes can be a valuable step in your career journey. Many of these programmes provide structured training, mentorship, and the opportunity to rotate through different roles within a company. Some platforms such as Bright Network provide a comprehensive listing of graduate schemes, internships, and insights events designed to equip graduates with the knowledge and connections needed to succeed in the job market. It's worth noting that many employers who offer these schemes are committed to diversity and inclusivity and make adjustments to accommodate disabled applicants.

Transparent Employers

Look for employers whose websites and job adverts state their commitment to diversity and equal opportunities. Glassdoor is a useful resource to learn more about a company from reviews by current and former employees. They can also provide insight into the company's support for disabled employees.

Disability Support at Work

Contact potential employers directly to ask about their policies that support disabled people's applications and their approach to supporting disabled employees at work. This can include their practices related to inclusive recruitment, workplace adjustments, staff training, and fostering an inclusive culture.

Networking

Don't underestimate the value of networking. Ask people within your circles, especially if you have contacts on LinkedIn, about their experiences with certain companies. They may have valuable insights into which organizations are particularly supportive and inclusive.

Your local job centre may also offer resources to help you find disability-friendly companies in your area.

Finally, don't let the absence of explicit disability-friendly statements deter you from applying to a job you're interested in. Many employers may be more inclusive than their marketing implies, and it's your right to request reasonable adjustments for both the application process and the role itself.

This journey may seem daunting, but remember that the right job and the right employer who values your skills and supports your needs is out there. Good luck with your search!