BUSINESSES heard that committing to a disability scheme would send a “powerful message” to supporting their employees at an event on Friday.

Around 50 employers met at disability charity Enham Trust to hear more about the government’s Disability Confident scheme, which aims to promote equal employment opportunity and help organisations recruit and retain people with health conditions and disabilities.

Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) minister and North West Hampshire MP Kit Malthouse and disabilities minister Sarah Newton also attended the event, where employers heard a speech from Ms Newton, received information and heard case study examples from Enham Trust.

Enham Trust gained Disability Confident leader status in 2017.

Mr Malthouse said: “Getting more disabled people into jobs lets them bring their talents into the workplace, but also gives employers access to the new ideas, new thinking and new skills they offer. It is a win-win for everyone and I am very pleased that so many businesses agreed on Friday and signed up.”

Businesses that came along to the day included De La Rue, Ocado, Aster, Coop, Le-Creuset, Simplyhealth and Stannah.

Charities such as the Macular Society, Mencap, the Poppy Factory and Andover Mind also attended.

Enham Trust chief executive Heath Gunn said: “It was fantastic to see so many local organisations come together to find out more about the scheme and how we can support them on their Disability Confident journey.

“We hope this event will be a step change within our local community and we will see real progression locally in the support provided by local employers for disabled people.”

Ms Newton added: “Enham Trust does great work in supporting disabled people into employment, and it was fantastic to see first-hand how they are bringing together local employers to learn from each other’s experiences and change attitudes towards disability employment.

“Signing up to the Disability Confident scheme sends a powerful message to potential employees that they will get the support they need to thrive in the workplace. I would encourage all employers to ensure they’re not missing out on this huge pool of talent.”

Those interested in the scheme can find out more at enhamtrust.org.uk/disability-confident.