The needs of employers in respect of their workforce are well established. Highlighted below are some of the requirements and the issues that are raised when an employee, existing or potential, has a disability. The table will give an indication of which organisation and schemes will be useful to an employer who is seeking to meet these needs. Further details of the individual organisations and their contact details are included on the following pages.

Retention of existing staff

Keeping trained, skilled staff is a priority for all employers. Many people develop a disability or a health condition that affects their ability to continue working as they used to, but this doesn't mean that they are no longer a valuable employee. Making changes to the way a job is organised, the hours required or rearranging the working environment could ensure that existing skills and knowledge are kept within your organisation. It will also avoid the cost and uncertainty of recruiting and training a totally new employee.

Recruitment of new staff

Recruitment is time consuming and costly (according to the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, the average cost of filling a vacancy is £3,950). It is always useful to have support from a third party who may already know a range of potential candidates and be able to provide support to help settle a new employee. Many people who are recruited through one of the organisations listed in this booklet will already have a personal development or action plan which will highlight any training needs. They can also often help to arrange for training to take place.

Training for the organisation as a whole

Some of the organisations detailed overleaf will offer training tailored to an individual employer's needs. This could involve general advice and guidance on working with colleagues who have a disability, or it could be specific training for onsite trainers.

If you want to offer work experience

Offering work experience to individuals can be an excellent way of supporting your local community who are often your customers. You may find a new member of staff, or give someone the chance to start their chosen career.
The needs of employers

Extra funds

Some schemes offer financial help to employers. Adjustments made by an employer may be funded, or there may be supplements to employers taking on a disabled person for the first few weeks of employment.

Job coaches/ Supported employment

Job coaches will support an employee who has a disability in the work place – often for as long as it takes for the individual to become fully comfortable with their job role and the work environment. This support can be available for employers who want to retain existing staff, or take on new staff.

Advice on becoming a disability aware organisation

All the organisations included in this directory will be able to give advice on issues relating to disability. Jobcentre Plus administers a scheme which will give you recognition of efforts made to become a disability friendly employer.