Disabled people, those with long-term health conditions and neurodivergent individuals could find it easier to secure jobs and build careers within the NHS after Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust achieved a new disability employment accreditation.
The Trust has been awarded Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) status, recognising the steps it has taken to make recruitment and working life more accessible and inclusive.
The accreditation means the organisation has gone beyond simply pledging to support disabled workers and has demonstrated practical action to remove barriers that could prevent people from entering or progressing within the workplace.
As part of its commitment, the Trust is working to ensure disabled applicants have access to fair and accessible recruitment processes, while existing employees can receive reasonable adjustments to help them carry out their roles.
This includes supporting staff with disabilities, neurodivergent conditions and long-term health issues to develop their careers without facing unnecessary barriers.
The changes are also intended to make employees feel more comfortable discussing their health conditions and asking for support when needed.
The Trust says it is working to improve understanding of disability and neurodiversity throughout the organisation, helping to create an environment where staff feel valued and respected.
Phoebe Roberts, Wellbeing Enablement Lead, has said:
“Creating a workplace where everyone belongs is essential to delivering the best care for our communities.
“Disability Confident Employer status, is another step forward in making Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust an inclusive, supportive and compassionate place to work.”
One member of staff has already highlighted the difference that workplace adjustments can make.
Alex Chitty, Co-chair of the Neurodiverse Network, has said:
“The support I received through the reasonable adjustments process made a huge difference.
“The focus was on understanding my needs and finding a practical solution, which helped me work more comfortably and confidently.
“I’d encourage anyone who is struggling to speak to their manager and ask for support.”
The Trust is now working towards Disability Confident Leader (Level 3) status, the next stage of the national accreditation scheme.
It says accessibility and inclusion will continue to be considered across its operations, including the introduction of new technology, changes to services and the development of new ways of working.
The latest recognition forms part of the Trust’s wider efforts to ensure disabled people and those with additional support needs have opportunities to work and progress within the NHS.
