Access to Work funding welcome step towards delivering effective support for employers and disabled people

18th March 2009

Employers Forum on Disability (EFD) today (18 March) welcomed the government’s announcement of an additional £8 million for Access to Work (AtW).

AtW, which is delivered by Job Centre Plus, provides practical advice and support to disabled people and their employers to help them overcome work-related obstacles resulting from disability.

Susan Scott-Parker, EFD’s Chief Executive, said: “We know from the experience of our members that AtW is an important tool for organisations that are committed to becoming more disability confident. Any extra resources that will help make AtW a success are very welcome.

“Many of our members tell us that funding is one of many factors that contribute to a positive experience of using AtW.  In particular, a more consistent approach is needed which meets the needs of both employees and employers.   

“Despite the obvious value of AtW, there still a number of employers who are not aware of the scheme and the benefits it offers. We will continue to work closely with our members and AtW to help make this vital resource deliver effectively for disabled individuals as well as employers.”

Ends

Notes to editors

The Access to Work announcement was made at the Beginnings Conference on 17 March.

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