C7: Disability discrimination

Composite of motion 14 and amendments

Congress notes that the ‘two tick’ disability symbol is used widely in both the private and public sectors. The scheme symbol of two ticks with the words “positive about disabled people” is meant to show that the employer using the symbol is positive about employing disabled people and is keen to know about the abilities of disabled people.

Whilst Congress welcomes the scheme it notes that there are no effective government monitoring or governance arrangements built in to review how each employer awarded the two tick symbol is meeting its commitments. The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists believes that to many employers the scheme is just a paper exercise and although policies and procedures are in place to attain the symbol, the practices are not. These can result in workers with disabilities being discriminated against, and without decent career prospects. Congress believes the only way to ensure the five commitments are put into practice is if there is regular effective review and monitoring by Government, or an independent awarding body. This would ensure the commitments are met, standards are kept high, and disabled workers would have confidence that they will receive equality in the workplace.

To this end, Congress calls on the TUC to work with Jobcentre Plus to tighten up the reviewing process, to ensure that every employer who displays the ‘two ticks’ symbol meets the required standards, and to publish the results of such reviews.

Congress further recognises the enormous benefits the Access to Work Scheme provides in supporting disabled people in work and enhancing career prospects. Congress calls for clear assurances from government that the scheme will not be withdrawn from public sector employers.

Mover:  Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists
Seconder:  FDA

Supporter:  Chartered Society of Physiotherapy