EFD statement on Remploy factory closures demonstration in Bradford

29th January 2008

Employers' Forum on Disability (EFD) acknowledges the concerns over the proposed Remploy factory closures, voiced by trade union members outside Bradford City Football Club today.

However, EFD believes the launch of our Yorkshire network marks a positive move for disabled people and employers in the region. EFD is hopeful that the progressive nature of today's event is not overshadowed by the Remploy dispute.

Niccola Swan, deputy chief executive of EFD commented: "If employers can access the information, tools and training they need on disability, the net result will be more mainstream employment opportunities for disabled jobseekers.

"We believe that people with disabilities deserve the same opportunity for meaningful employment as non-disabled people and that the Remploy modernisation programme reflects the aspirations of disabled people in today's Britain.

"Our focus today is to share best practice on disability and employment and actively encourage our members to become better skilled at making the adjustments disabled employees require."

Ends

Notes to editors

Media enquiries, please contact:

Brenda Otema, Communications & Marketing Officer
Employers' Forum on Disability
Email: brenda.otema@efd.org.uk
Telephone: 020 7403 3020

About Employers' Forum on Disability

Employers' Forum on Disability is the employers' organisation focused on disability as it affects employers and service providers. With over 300 members, EFD represents organisations that employ around 20 per cent of the UK workforce.Since its establishment in 1991, EFD has worked closely with government and other stakeholders, sharing best practice to make it easier to employ disabled people and serve disabled customers.

www.efd.org.uk