EFD responds to Remploy research into employers' attitudes to disability on International Day of Disabled People

3rd December 2009

Employers need to understand the economic, strategic and legal benefits of getting it right on disability, says Employers' Forum on Disability (EFD) today (3 December), in response to research published today by Remploy.

The research, which was carried out by ComRes, found that:

• More than two thirds of SME employers say they do not need support on legal requirements, yet only half were familiar with the provisions of the Disability Discrimination Act.

• Only 8% of these businesses that do not employ disabled people have any interest in finding out more about people with disabilities joining their companies.

The research is published today by Remploy to mark International Day of Disabled People (IDDP). EFD's Chief Executive Susan Scott-Parker said: "EFD has nearly 400 members who employ around 20 per cent of the UK's workforce. They tell us that getting it right on disability brings benefits across their business. For example, managers that are trained in managing disability well are also better at managing and reducing sickness rates.

"However, this research demonstrates that too many employers are missing out on the talents of disabled employees and the spending power of disabled customers. One in three people are either disabled or close to someone who is, and so disability affects all employers.

"Awareness days like International Day of Disabled People are an excellent way for employers to refresh their approach to disability. One in three people are disabled or close to someone who is, so disability affects all employers."

IDDP is organised by the UN, and aims to promote an understanding of disability issues, the rights of people with disabilities and the benefits of integrating disabled people into every aspect of the their communities.

Susan Scott-Parker continued: "There is a clear economic, strategic and ethical case for disability competence, and EFD is proud to support the aims of IDDP that help make this a reality."

Ends

Notes to editors

EFD is marking International Day of Disabled People (IDDP) with EFD Live, a special radio style interactive discussion forum. EFD Live will use telephone tutorial technology to discuss the latest disability news affecting employers, and issues like reasonable adjustments.

Several EFD's members are hosting events to mark IDDP, including Barcap, Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley. EFD staff will also be attending events at Remploy.

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