As a small business owner, you want to create a workplace that is inclusive and supportive of all employees. This includes those with disabilities, who may face additional challenges in the workplace. Fortunately, there is a UK government scheme that can help – Access to Work.
What is access to work?
Access to Work provides practical and financial support to disabled people to help them overcome workplace barriers. This can include funding for specialist equipment, adaptations to the workplace, and support workers or interpreters. But how can this scheme benefit your small business? Let’s take a look.
Create an inclusive workplace
By providing support to employees with disabilities, you can create a more inclusive workplace. This can help to attract and retain talented employees with disabilities, who may otherwise struggle to find a suitable workplace. In addition, an inclusive workplace can help to build a positive reputation for your small business, which can be a valuable asset in attracting customers and partners.
Boost productivity
By supporting disabled employees, you can help them to be more productive in their roles. For example, providing specialist equipment or software can enable employees with visual impairments to carry out their work more efficiently. In addition, by removing barriers to work, you can help to ensure that all employees are able to contribute their skills and expertise to the business.
Improve staff morale
An inclusive workplace can also help to improve staff morale. When employees feel supported and valued, they are more likely to be motivated and engaged in their work. This can lead to increased job satisfaction and reduced turnover, which can be a significant benefit for small businesses.
Reduce sickness absence
By providing support to disabled employees, you can help to reduce sickness absence. For example, providing ergonomic furniture or adjustments to the workplace can help to prevent injuries and musculoskeletal disorders. In addition, by supporting employees with mental health conditions, you can help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can contribute to sickness absence.
In conclusion, Access to Work can be a valuable resource for small businesses that want to create an inclusive and supportive workplace. By providing practical and financial support to disabled employees, you can create a workplace where all employees can thrive. This can lead to benefits such as increased productivity, improved staff morale, and reduced sickness absence – all of which can be valuable for small businesses. If you’re interested in accessing support through Access to Work, visit the UK government website to find out more.
Need more information?
Join us for our FREE Supporting Employees with ADHD and Autism webinar on Thursday, April 27th at 11:30am. Kate will be joined by Tori Rist from the Koala Academy, who was diagnosed autistic with ADHD as an adult. Tori is all too aware of how some children fail to achieve at school due to severe masking and the inability to cope with social, environmental and academic pressures. Find out more and secure your place here.
