Motion 61
Closing the Disability Employment Gap
“That this Congress is alarmed to learn that the Disability Employment Gap remains largely unchanged.
“Even more shocking is that the Gap appears to be greater for disabled workers who face additional inequalities due to age, gender, ethnicity or poverty.
“Disabled people report feeling unsupported and disadvantaged when job searching and when in employment, they say they are unaware of the supports that are available to them and feel that all too often employers or those offering support into work are not always aware of the supports and services that are available to disabled workers.
“In sectors such as shows and films, failure to deliver on OFCOM promises for ‘out-of-London’ productions means hardly any roles are available for disabled and neurodivergent talent in Scotland.
“Congress acknowledges the Scottish Government’s commitment to halve the Disability Employment Gap by 2038 but feels the trade union movement can be instrumental in working to overcome barriers faced by disabled people, raising awareness of the legislation and supports that disabled workers are entitled to which allows them to gain and maintain purposeful employment and ensuring guidance for employers is straightforward, accurate and coherent.
“Congress calls for work to be done to;
- form partnerships with employers, Jobcentres and recruitment agencies to raise awareness of the supports and services for disabled people and how these can empower them in and into employment;
- improve resources for organisations supporting people in and into employment so they are aware of the supports, initiatives and entitlements of disabled people;
- link with relevant organisations to ensure there are opportunities for disabled people to enter the workforce via internships and apprentices for young disabled people, offering specialist union support and guidance; and
- enhance the Unions into School’s programme to include overcoming barriers to employment and in work supports.”
Mover: STUC Disabled Workers’ Conference
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