BDF responds to launch of workplace Innovation Fund

Business Disability Forum (BDF) has responded to the launch of the Government’s Pathways to Work Innovation Fund today, highlighting the need for new approaches to shifting the disability employment gap.

Diane Lightfoot, CEO of Business Disability Forum, said:

“We are delighted to see the launch of the Pathways to Work Innovation Fund to stimulate new ideas and fresh thinking to support more disabled people in and into work. It is clear that things need to change if we are to shift the disability employment gap in a meaningful way, and a fund of this nature is something we and others have been calling for for several years.

“Far too many disabled people are either not entering or leaving the workforce because they cannot get the support they need. Fresh perspectives and approaches are welcomed, so we encourage as many groups, and employers to consider applying to the Innovation Fund as possible – from organisations that want to pilot something new to those who think what has worked for them can be scaled up to help others too. The fund will provide opportunities for employers and policy makers to learn from what works and we hope will lead to better workplace experiences for all disabled people.

“But innovation is just one element of what is needed for disabled people to find and thrive in work. We also need joined up wider support systems. PIP and Access to Work are currently under review. Both play a key role in making work possible for many disabled people and they also need to be considered alongside today’s announcement.”