Disability equity needed in creative industries
There's an urgent need for employers within the creative industries to improve access and progression opportunities for disabled workers a new report reveals
Creative Access, a leading diversity, equity and inclusion organisation within the UK commissioned a survey in consultation with all members of their community who identify as disabled, deaf or neurodivergent. The findings, published in a new report, show the extent to which disabled workers have experienced prejudice in relation to job and progression opportunities within the UK creative industries.
While one in five of the working age population are classified as disabled, and the Equality Act 2010 states that employers must make reasonable adjustments to support disabled job applicants and employees, the report highlights that only 54% of disabled people are employed compared to 82% of non-disabled people.
The report uncovered that many jobseekers within creative fields choose not to disclose their disability to potential or current employers. It also found that:
- 88% of respondents cited the two biggest barriers to their creative careers as a lack of employer understanding in regard to reasonable adjustments and a lack of awareness of disability issues among colleagues.
- Only a quarter feel they have access to the contacts and networks needed to progress their careers, as opposed to 62% of general respondents.
- As little as 27% are optimistic about their opportunities for progression.
- Only one third feel they have the confidence they need to progress their creative careers, with the majority describing negative experiences in the workplace as a reason for this.
- Three quarters of respondents said they would like to see more flexible working, as well as training for line managers when it comes to supporting disabled employees.
Take a look at the full report, 'Creative Access Disability Survey Results 2022'.
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