By Dr. Jen Cottam, Clinical Psychologist and our fearless leader!
My first experience in mental health was in a team supporting people with learning disabilities. I was a support worker for a young man with a severe learning disability and autism – 25 years ago now. I still can’t go to Roker Beach without thinking of him. We spent many hours there, and what I learned from him shaped how I work, how I communicate, and ultimately, why I care so deeply about people feeling seen, heard, and valued.
That’s why this year’s Learning Disability Week theme hits home. Because far too often, people with learning disabilities are overlooked in the very places where they should be empowered – like work.
Only 27% of working-age adults with a learning disability in the UK are in paid employment, despite 86% saying they want to work. Compare that to 80%+ of the general population in work. The gap is staggering. [Mencap, 2024]
Work gives us more than a payslip. It gives us purpose, identity, confidence, friendships. It says, “You matter here.” But for too many people with learning disabilities, barriers in recruitment and workplace practices send the opposite message.
From jargon-heavy job ads to inaccessible application forms, from unsupported interviews to a lack of reasonable adjustments, it’s clear there’s still a long way to go.
So what can leaders do?
- Partner with supported employment services to build inclusive recruitment pipelines
- Cut the jargon and simplify your job descriptions
- Offer flexible and supported interviews
- Review and refresh your reasonable adjustment policies
- Create a carer-friendly culture that recognises team members supporting family members with learning disabilities
- Consider internships or volunteering opportunities with charities like Mencap
Companies like Sainsbury’s, NHS England, and John Lewis Partnership are already leading the way, showing that inclusive employment isn’t just possible, it’s powerful.
Let’s not just talk about inclusion, let’s act on it. Let’s create workplaces where people with learning disabilities feel seen, heard, and truly valued.
Need support building a more inclusive workplace? Talk Works can help. Find out more about our workshops on neurodiversity within the workplace.