Warrington and Halton Teaching Hospitals has become one of only four public sector organisations in the Warrington and Halton areas to achieve the highest level of the Government’s Disability Confident scheme.
WHH has become a Disability Confident Leader, as the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has granted the Trust the highest level of recognition in a scheme that encourages employers to recruit, retain and develop people with disabilities. WHH joins Warrington Disability Partnership, Halton Borough Council and Halton Haven Hospice as public or third sector Leaders across Warrington and Halton.
To reach the top level, besides previous commitments regarding recruitment, adjustments and support, organisations must: employ people with disabilities; report on disability, mental health and wellbeing; and act as a Disability Confident champion within their local and business communities.
Simon Constable, Chief Executive of Warrington and Halton Teaching Hospitals welcomed the awarding of the Disability Confident Leader status.
“We are extremely pleased to have achieved the top level of recognition in the Disability Confident scheme for employers. It shows how committed we are to recruiting from the widest possible pool of talent – and retaining that talent. Being a Disability Confident Leader really shows us living our values and embracing inclusion. By building a diverse workforce that reflects our patients and communities, we can better serve them. This official accolade says we are a Trust that cares.”
In the UK, 7.6 million working-age people have a disability. Supported by the DWP, Disability Confident is a voluntary scheme developed by employers and disabled people’s representatives. It encourages employers to improve how they recruit, retain and develop people with disabilities.
The scheme has three levels:
• Disability Confident Committed Employer (level 1)
• Disability Confident Employer (level 2)
• Disability Confident Leader (level 3)
According to the DWP, Disability Confident organisations play a leading role in changing attitudes for the better. They’re changing behaviour and cultures in their own businesses, networks and communities, and reaping the benefits of inclusive recruitment practices.
