Why is Disability Awareness important?

There are over 16 million people in the UK who have a disability or long-term health condition; making up 24% of the UK working-age population. Additionally, the unemployment rate for working-age people who have a disability is currently 52%. This is considerably higher than the unemployment rate for non-disabled people.

Lack of Disability Awareness

One of the main reasons the unemployment rate is so high is due to a lack of disability awareness. Some don’t see the need for disability awareness, however, disability is a protected characteristic under the Equality Act of 2010.

Providing awareness and insight into disability will enrich the workplace, provide employment for disabled people and support society to be inclusive.

So why is disability awareness so important?

Disabled people are known for their ability to adapt and think outside the box and they develop unique skills as they face barriers in life. They have to navigate and overcome them. A more diverse society can benefit everyone, therefore, we should value and recognise their skills.

Unfortunately, society does not always recognise or value these skills, so we need to change this view of disability.

There are many reasons why disability awareness is very important, and these include:

Promoting Inclusion

An opportunity to learn about disability will help create a more inclusive society. It will reduce stereotypes, promote empathy, and show that disability is not to be feared.

Reducing Stigma

There are many disabilities, both physical and hidden. A hidden impairment is like a mental health issue. You can’t see it. More awareness will help reduce the stigma of hidden impairments. It will help create a supportive environment for them to thrive in their community.

Encourage Positive Change

Raising awareness of disabilities will challenge the norm and will show the group’s challenges. Awareness will raise the need for inclusive policies and practices. We must ensure equal opportunities for all in education, work, and access to services and products.

Encourage Empathy

It will help everyone understand the challenges disabled people face, increasing empathy and better social connections. Helping to reduce harmful stereotypes and promoting a safe, welcoming space for all.

Work and Disability Awareness

Finally, regarding education and the workplace, disability awareness is very important. Schools must educate the next generation as we strive to prevent disabled people from facing the discrimination and prejudice that today’s generation may have experienced.

This will create more compassionate and informed people who will be more inclusive. In the workplace, it’s vital to support all employees.

Understand your disabled employees’ needs

By making reasonable adjustments, you can boost productivity and satisfaction. This will lead to higher employee retention and better support for the organisation.

If your organisation needs support with training and guidance about disability awareness we would love to talk to you. Get in touch and our friendly team will get right back to you.