Fire detection and life safety specialist CDS has joined a government scheme aimed at encouraging employers to recruit and retain disabled people and those with health conditions.
Around 18,000 UK businesses are already signed up to Disability Confident, which is run by the Department for Work and Pensions.
Business leaders from some of the country’s most high-profile companies, including Channel 4, BT, GlaxoSmithKline, Network Rail and Sainsbury’s are working alongside the DWP to ensure it meets the needs of businesses and disabled people.
CDS has joined fellow scheme members in signing up to five ‘commitments’ which include ensuring an inclusive recruitment process; offering interviews to disabled people who meet the minimum job criteria; providing ‘reasonable adjustments’ and supporting existing colleagues who acquires a disability or long-term health condition.
CDS managing director Simon Abley said: “We’re very pleased to be part of the Disability Confident scheme and to committing to remove barriers which might prevent disabled people and those with long term health conditions from working with us.
“The scheme is mutually beneficial. As well as ensuring equality of opportunity for disabled people, it means we have access to a wider pool of talent and can hold onto valuable skills and experience. It also improves staff morale by showing we’re committed to treating all employees fairly. We look forward to playing our part in positively changing attitudes, behaviours and cultures in the world at large.”
CDS and fellow Disability Confident members are entitled to attend webinars and conferences led by business leaders and experts on key disability employment topics and will be offered information, support and guidance on disability-related issues.
Joining the scheme means CDS can use the Disability Confident badge on all its communication materials to demonstrate its commitment to equal opportunities.
