Care Quality Commission: Launch of a unique Accessibility Hub

Recruitment of disabled people at UK’s care regulator grows by 50 per cent following the launch of a unique Accessibility Hub

At the Care Quality Commission (CQC), a collaborative team effort (assistive technology) has led to the creation of a unique Accessibility Hub that has transformed workplace culture and significantly improved understanding of disabilities across the organisation. 

The initiative was spearheaded by Andrea James, Accessibility Lead, working closely with her Business Disability Forum Disability Business Partner, and supported by colleagues across CQC. Together, they envisioned a space where people could learn, try and see assistive technologies in action — an idea that earned Andrea an internal award and widespread recognition from peers. 

CQC, the UK’s healthcare watchdog, employs over 3,500 staff and oversees standards in care homes, hospitals and primary care services. Since joining BDF in 2004, the organisation has worked to embed equity, diversity and inclusion throughout its operations. Andrea describes her role as “the golden thread” that supports disabled colleagues across the organisation. 

From the outset, the team engaged CQC’s People Culture Committee and completed BDF’s Disability Smart Self-Assessment and Audit, helping to prioritise areas for improvement. One major challenge was the procurement of hardware and software for staff requiring workplace adjustments. The team discovered that many colleagues had diverse needs, and managers often lacked the knowledge to support them effectively. 

To address this, the team developed the Accessibility Hub — a space where colleagues and managers alike could explore assistive technologies in a hands-on, supportive environment. Since its launch on 26 March 2024, the hub has grown into a multi-location initiative, with a second physical hub in Newcastle and a mobile version that supports internal conferences and events. An ambassador programme further extends its reach. 

The hub features themed desks focused on visual impairment, neurodiversity, physical disability, digital disability and a model desk. It has empowered colleagues with invisible barriers to explore tools in a safe and inclusive setting. Highlights include the launch of a virtual reality simulator for visual impairment and an accessibility surgery during Inclusion Week, which welcomed over 30 colleagues seeking advice and support. 

The team has also shared knowledge externally, hosting sessions with organisations such as HMRC’s Accessibility Centre of Excellence. Internally, the hub has driven policy changes.

Thanks to this collective effort, CQC has seen a 50% increase in the recruitment of disabled people and achieved an 82% score in a recent technology accessibility audit, underscoring the hub’s impact on supporting colleagues and fostering an inclusive workplace. 

If you require this content in a different format, contact enquiries@businessdisabilityforum.org.uk.