Latest news with #disabilityinclusion
Forbes
08-07-2025
- Business
- Forbes
The Business Benefits Of Hiring People With Disabilities
Written by Dr. Katie Arnold, Executive Director, Our Place In today's competitive economy, companies are constantly seeking new ways to innovate, increase productivity and build strong, resilient teams. One of the most powerful yet often overlooked strategies to achieve these goals is disability inclusion in the workplace. Hiring people with disabilities isn't just the right thing to do; it's smart business. A Largely Untapped Talent Pool There are over 60 million adults in the United States living with some form of disability. Despite this, the employment rate for people with disabilities remains significantly lower than for those without disabilities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment-population ratio for persons with a disability was only 21.3% in 2022, compared to 65.4% for those without a disability. Yet employers who have taken proactive steps to hire people with disabilities consistently report benefits ranging from improved workplace morale to stronger business outcomes. Individuals with disabilities bring a wide range of skills, experiences, and perspectives to the workplace. From problem-solving and adaptability to loyalty and resilience, many of the qualities employers seek are abundant in this population. Companies that recognize and embrace this potential are often rewarded with committed employees and a more dynamic workforce. Proven Business Benefits The data backs it up: hiring people with disabilities is good for the bottom line. A 2023 study by Accenture, in partnership with Disability:IN and the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), found that companies that actively employ and support people with disabilities outperform their peers. These companies experienced 1.6 times more revenue, 2 times more economic profit, and 2.6 times more net income compared to those with less inclusive practices. Also, compared to their industry peers, these companies are 25% more productive—measured by revenue per employee. Inclusive companies benefit from higher employee retention, stronger morale, and enhanced brand reputation. They are also more likely to foster innovation, as diverse teams, particularly those that include individuals who have had to navigate the world in unique ways, tend to challenge assumptions and generate creative solutions. Real-World Examples of Impact The true stories of employers show the real impact. For example, Dell Technologies demonstrates how inclusive hiring and support practices can drive business success. By integrating neurodiversity career coaches into its onboarding process, partnering with disability service organizations, and providing personalized support for both employees and managers, Dell ensures that neurodiverse talent can thrive. Additionally, in 2021, an accessibility project was developed called LEAD, a Dell Research, Development, and Innovation Center with the purpose of creating innovative solutions in areas such as wearable devices, AI, language processing, and more. Another example is Bitty & Beau's Coffee, a coffee shop that employs people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Their model has gained national attention not due to its mission and for the outstanding customer service that make it a standout experience for patrons. The brand has expanded to multiple cities, showing that inclusive employment isn't just sustainable, it's scalable. Busting the Myths: Capability and Cost One of the most persistent myths about hiring people with disabilities is that they are less capable or that workplace accommodations are prohibitively expensive. In fact, research shows the opposite. Research from the Job Accommodation Network shows that more than half (56%) of accommodations cost absolutely nothing to implement, while the rest typically average around $300. That's a small price to pay for inclusive hiring that can expand talent pools, boost innovation, and reflect the diversity of customers served. Another misconception is that employees with disabilities are less productive or more prone to absenteeism. The truth could not be more different. People with disabilities tend to be more loyal, consistent, and reliable employees. Walgreens, for example, integrated a significant number of workers with disabilities into its distribution centers. The company found that these employees had lower turnover rates, better safety records, and equal or higher productivity compared to employees without disabilities. These aren't feel-good statistics, they're bottom-line results. The Role of Disability:IN Leading the way in inclusive hiring is Disability:IN, a nonprofit that works to empower businesses to achieve disability inclusion and equality. Through its network of over 500 corporations, Disability:IN provides tools, training, and benchmarking systems that help companies build more inclusive workplaces. Disability:IN also supports employee resource groups (ERGs), leadership development for people with disabilities, and corporate partnerships that foster accountability and innovation. Their work has transformed how companies view disability not as a compliance issue, but as a strategic advantage. Why It's a Win-Win Hiring people with disabilities is smart business. Here's why: And finally, let's not forget: disability can affect any of us at any time, whether through injury, illness, or aging. Building inclusive workplaces is about creating environments where everyone can thrive, now and in the future. Moving Forward Forward-thinking companies recognize that hiring people with disabilities is not about charity—it's about opportunity. It's about building teams that reflect the world we live in and tapping into the full range of human potential. By actively recruiting, hiring, and supporting people with disabilities, businesses not only do good—they do well. Unlocking talent begins with challenging outdated assumptions and embracing the reality that disability is part of the human experience. When employers open their doors to people with disabilities, they gain dedicated employees, strengthen their culture, and build a more innovative and successful future.
BBC News
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
We Might Regret This series 2 begins filming
Filming has officially begun on the new series of the BBC's critically acclaimed comedy We Might Regret This. Created by Lee Getty and Kyla Harris, who also stars, the award-winning series is produced by Roughcut TV (Big Boys, People Just Do Nothing, Stath Lets Flats) for BBC Two and BBC iPlayer. The second series, filming in London, is set against the backdrop of Freya (Kyla Harris) and Abe's (Darren Boyd) recent engagement. As the couple dive headfirst into wedding planning, it quickly becomes clear that their views on marriage—and visions for the big day—aren't always aligned. Tensions rise as they navigate the high-stress world of wedding prep, further complicated by Freya's agents, The Olivias (Emma Sidi and Hanako Footman), who enlist the couple in a wedding-themed content creation campaign focused on disability inclusion. Abe is also forced to confront his complicated history with Jo (Elena Saurel), as well as his own trust issues, after unexpectedly finding Jo and Freya together. As Freya and Jo's connection rekindles, it becomes clear that Abe will need to come to terms with the past—and find a way to at least accept, if not fully embrace, the person who plays such a vital role in Freya's life and wellbeing. Joining the cast is Sophie Thompson (Detectorists, SisterS, Silo) as Beanie McElroy, a huge designer from the alt bridal-wear space, who's enlisted to 'collab' with Kyla on her bridal garment. Also reprising their iconic roles are Edward Bluemel, Sally Phillps, Aasiya Shah and Lolly Adefope. The first series of We Might Regret This rose to critical acclaim, with creators Kyla Harris & Lee Getty recognised as part of BAFTA's 2024 UK Breakthrough cohort and being nominated in the Emerging Talent category at the 2025 BAFTA TV Craft Awards. Kyla Harris & Lee Getty says: "We're beyond excited to be back on set with series two of We Might Regret This! Expect more laughs, hard truths and nipples." Rebecca Murrell, Executive Producer for Roughcut says: 'So delighted to be back in production on We Might Regret This. Series two reboots our knotty relationships with drama, hope and hilarity.' We Might Regret This (4x30') is a Roughcut TV production for BBC Two and BBC iPlayer, commissioned by BBC Director of Comedy, Jon Petrie. The series is co-created by Kyla Harris and Lee Getty. The executive producers for Roughcut are Ash Atalla, Alex Smith and Rebecca Murrell. The commissioning editor is Gregor Sharp. Watch We Might Regret This on BBC iPlayer EH2
Yahoo
23-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Some people with learning disabilities struggling to access banking
Some adults with learning disabilities could be raising their risk of financial harm due to struggles to access banking services, a report has warned. Informal workarounds are being used to help some people with a learning disability to get by financially, including handing over Pins to others and allowing family members to impersonate them on the phone. The research was published by Project Nemo – a not-for-profit campaign for disability inclusion in banking and financial technology – and sponsored by Nationwide Building Society. Around a third (32%) of adults with a learning disability who took part in the research did not have their own bank account. Some of those who took part in the research said they struggle with passwords or logins, or find it difficult to talk to bank staff, or find security checks hard to complete. The report also argued that the general shift away from payments made using coins and banknotes may have left vulnerable people behind. The report recommended that financial technology developers and financial services providers should include clear and simple language in banking features, with visual explanations where possible. The ability to intercept 'risky' purchases could also help to bolster people's independence, the report said. Features for products should include savings pots, a calm mode to reduce overwhelm, and wearable alternatives to payment cards, researchers suggested. Researchers carried out in-depth interviews as well as a survey of more than 1,600 people who identified as having a characteristic of vulnerability. Kris Foster, co-founder of Project Nemo, urged banks to 'break down the existing barriers'. Kathryn Townsend, Nationwide's head of customer vulnerability and accessibility, said: 'Everyone deserves to manage their money with confidence, dignity and independence.' Jon Sparkes, chief executive of charity Mencap, said: 'People with a learning disability tell us that they can struggle to make payments safely because of complex banking systems, inaccessible payment options and a lack of 'easy read' information. 'Because of these barriers, many worry about being more vulnerable to financial abuse and not being able to spend their money in the way they want to. Project Nemo's work is a hugely important step towards ensuring the 1.5 million people with a learning disability across the UK can make their financial choices safely and independently.' A spokesperson for trade body UK Finance said: 'The banking and finance industry is committed to helping all customers. Firms offer a range of services to help support customers with learning disabilities, and we encourage people to contact their bank to discuss the options available. The industry also works with various third sector organisations to help them understand challenges customers face and improve accessibility. 'To ensure cash access is still available for all, customers are able to withdraw and deposit money in banking hubs and post offices across the UK.' UK Finance also released a report on Thursday into progress made by banks following the introduction of the Disability Finance Code for Entrepreneurship (DFCE) in December 2024, which aims to improve the entrepreneurial landscape for people with disabilities. The code sets out commitments to further widen opportunities for disabled entrepreneurs, including providing people with accessible and practical support, such as mentoring and networking events. The report said banks' initiatives include establishing specific teams dedicated to disability inclusion, with a focus on tracking and supporting people who identify as having a disability. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Arab News
22-06-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Saudi initiative supports people with disabilities
RIYADH: The Authority for the Care of People with Disabilities has announced the fifth Purple Saturday initiative, set for July 26, the Saudi Press Agency reported. Held annually on the last Saturday of July, the event is organized in partnership with government, private and nonprofit organizations. As part of its commitment to supporting people with disabilities, the authority uses the initiative to offer incentives and encourage companies to develop programs that promote inclusion and participation. Purple Saturday allows participating stores to provide special discounts and promotions for people with disabilities, the SPA added. The initiative has grown steadily, with more than 3,500 retail locations across the Kingdom taking part, as well as contributions from other Gulf countries. This year, the authority will introduce the Purple Saturday Award to recognize outstanding offers, companies and initiatives that support disability empowerment. The award aims to encourage quality efforts, increase engagement and inspire community support, the SPA reported. The authority continues to work across sectors to improve services for people with disabilities and raise public awareness, with the goal of building a more inclusive society with equal opportunities for all.
Yahoo
19-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Some people with learning disabilities struggling to access banking
Some adults with learning disabilities could be raising their risk of financial harm due to struggles to access banking services, a report has warned. Informal workarounds are being used to help some people with a learning disability to get by financially, including handing over Pins to others and allowing family members to impersonate them on the phone. The research was published by Project Nemo – a not-for-profit campaign for disability inclusion in banking and financial technology – and sponsored by Nationwide Building Society. Around a third (32%) of adults with a learning disability who took part in the research did not have their own bank account. Some of those who took part in the research said they struggle with passwords or logins, or find it difficult to talk to bank staff, or find security checks hard to complete. The report also argued that the general shift away from payments made using coins and banknotes may have left vulnerable people behind. The report recommended that financial technology developers and financial services providers should include clear and simple language in banking features, with visual explanations where possible. The ability to intercept 'risky' purchases could also help to bolster people's independence, the report said. Features for products should include savings pots, a calm mode to reduce overwhelm, and wearable alternatives to payment cards, researchers suggested. Researchers carried out in-depth interviews as well as a survey of more than 1,600 people who identified as having a characteristic of vulnerability. Kris Foster, co-founder of Project Nemo, urged banks to 'break down the existing barriers'. Kathryn Townsend, Nationwide's head of customer vulnerability and accessibility, said: 'Everyone deserves to manage their money with confidence, dignity and independence.' Jon Sparkes, chief executive of charity Mencap, said: 'People with a learning disability tell us that they can struggle to make payments safely because of complex banking systems, inaccessible payment options and a lack of 'easy read' information. 'Because of these barriers, many worry about being more vulnerable to financial abuse and not being able to spend their money in the way they want to. Project Nemo's work is a hugely important step towards ensuring the 1.5 million people with a learning disability across the UK can make their financial choices safely and independently.' A spokesperson for trade body UK Finance said: 'The banking and finance industry is committed to helping all customers. Firms offer a range of services to help support customers with learning disabilities, and we encourage people to contact their bank to discuss the options available. The industry also works with various third sector organisations to help them understand challenges customers face and improve accessibility. 'To ensure cash access is still available for all, customers are able to withdraw and deposit money in banking hubs and post offices across the UK.' UK Finance also released a report on Thursday into progress made by banks following the introduction of the Disability Finance Code for Entrepreneurship (DFCE) in December 2024, which aims to improve the entrepreneurial landscape for people with disabilities. The code sets out commitments to further widen opportunities for disabled entrepreneurs, including providing people with accessible and practical support, such as mentoring and networking events. The report said banks' initiatives include establishing specific teams dedicated to disability inclusion, with a focus on tracking and supporting people who identify as having a disability.
