Action 1.1E: Identify and engage with disability partner organisations to collaboratively develop sustainable inclusion practices.

Guidance

Engaging with Disabled Persons Representative Organisations (DPROs)/Disabled Persons Organisations (DPOs) is a key principle highlighted in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which emphasises the importance for the state in involving these groups in developing disability-related policies, procedures, and inclusive practices.

“We see a lot of people who want to do better, but don’t want to get it wrong, and that can lead to inaction or being overly cautious to make change.”

WIDE Consultation Participant – Employer

Similarly, your organisation should seek to collaborate with DPROs/DPOs and disability NGOs with proven success in disability inclusion in the workplace to gain insights and expertise that can inform your inclusion strategies. In medium-large or public sector organisations where dedicated roles such as an Access Officer or Disability Liaison Officer exist, it’s particularly vital that these staff members build partnerships with such organisations that can inform their practices.

Learning from DPROs/DPOs and NGOs can provide valuable guidance and ensure your diversity and inclusion efforts are informed by best practices and the voices of disabled people. This collaborative approach can give you confidence that your inclusion efforts are effective and more aligned with best practices in the field.

“There’s a lot of awareness of the need to act but employers don’t know where to go”

WIDE Consultation Participant – Employer

Depending on the size and scope of your organisation, your partners may include large national DPROs/DPOs/NGOs or smaller local disability groups (as distinct from disability service providers), and the range of engagements may differ depending on company resources and needs. It is important to recognise the advice and contributions of partners with lived experience to your organisation, offering appropriate payment for any advice, consultation, and other work delivered by your disability partners as appropriate.

By actively engaging with disability partner organisations, you demonstrate a commitment to creating a more inclusive workplace and build trust with your disabled employees.