Almost nine in 10 adults with learning disabilities have experienced difficulties finding jobs
ALMOST nine out of ten adults with learning disabilities have experienced difficulties finding a job, according to research.
A recent poll of 500 people with these disabilities revealed some shocking results, with over half admitting to having a lack of confidence.
A whopping 32 per cent didn’t think employers would hire them due to their learning difficulties, while 29 per cent found the application process difficult to complete.
The troubling results also suggested that 27 per cent worry they wouldn’t have the support needed to carry out the role, while a huge quarter do not feel supported by employers when taking on a job.
And over a massive 79 per cent said a fear of being judged by an interviewer had put them off going for a role altogether.
Ahead of Learning Disability Week, from June 19-25, Hilton commissioned the research to launch a free educational workshop.
The project is in partnership with the Down’s Syndrome Association and Aurora Foxes, which will take place in early September.
Stephen Cassidy, senior vice president and managing director, UK & Ireland at Hilton, said: “Building an inclusive workplace which allows every individual to thrive is fundamental to the success of any business.
“We’ve seen first-hand the benefits of supporting those with learning disabilities, welcoming some exceptional talent into our business in partnership with the Down’s Syndrome Association and Aurora Foxes”.
He then went on to explain how the research proves there is a significant opportunity to encourage businesses to embrace workers who have learning difficulties.
“We hope that by sharing our experience, we can inspire other employers to provide much-needed job opportunities for those with learning disabilities and help them reap the benefits that a diverse workforce brings – from employee engagement to business performance.”
According to the British Association for Supported Employment, employment rates of those with a learning disability have fallen to a worrying 4.8 per cent.
But 60 per cent of the 500 employers also polled by Hilton felt UK companies are not doing enough to be inclusive.
Not having suitable roles, or the right practices in place to support those with learning disabilities are seen as the main barriers to recruiting these adults.
But 21 per cent said the cost to the business when it comes to additional training was the biggest hurdle.
However, even when they get a job, 62 per cent of those with learning disabilities find it hard to keep it, with 45 per cent blaming this on the company not being equipped to support their needs.
The best solutions to help those with disabilities in the workplace included training for all employees and managers, according to the research.
Among employers who had hired people with a learning disability, a massive 89 per cent said that they had exceeded or met expectations.
But shockingly, only 42 per cent of those polled revealed they would be likely to hire someone with a learning disability in the future.
Nearly half had no training on how to hire or manage those with learning disabilities, and 36 per cent admitted they do not offer any ongoing support to help those people.
Shomari Burford, 24, from London, has Down’s Syndrome and began his career at Hilton in 2018.
He now works in concierge, helping guests and supporting the hotel’s operations team.
He said: “I love working here. It’s great to see a lot of guests coming in and out the hotel, and I really enjoy helping them.
“That’s my favourite part of the job, as well as working with my team who have all been very supportive.”
Alison Thwaite, employment development manager at the Down’s Syndrome Association added: “The findings highlight the critical need for companies to prioritise training and support for decision-makers when it comes to welcoming people with learning disabilities into the workplace.
“As well as providing benefits for businesses, the power of employment for those with a learning disability cannot be underestimated.
“Finding work can help individuals increase their circle of friends, build self-esteem and confidence, increase independence and support both personal and professional development.”