What is the business case for recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce?
Employers are becoming increasingly interested in the concept of ‘diversity management’, and the establishment of a workforce that reflects the local community. Many regard it both as an ethical and an economic issue. It is clearly only fair that the various and diverse groups within the community are able to access jobs on an equal basis. However, adopting policies and procedures to achieve this is also expected to lead to an increase in customer loyalty, and, subsequently to higher income and profits. As one employer put it ‘Successful companies are those that are able to monitor and meet shifts in societal expectations, to control risks and to anticipate market opportunities. Disability is part of this equation and an integral part of the strategy. Businesses that have the vision and the will to create an enabling environment for diverse parts of the community (including disabled people) will prosper.’ Abilities not disabilities: People with disabilities have the skills, knowledge a
