A HOST of local businesses have signed up to a new scheme aimed at getting more disabled people into work.

It follows an event in Chepstow on Friday (16th September) which highlighted the importance of challenging negative attitudes to disability in the workplace and the benefits gained from employing disabled people.

Thirty businesses from around Monmouthshire attended the free Disability Confident networking day at St Pierre Marriott Hotel and Country Club.

Monmouth MP David Davies, who organised Friday’s “reverse jobs fair” in partnership with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), said he was delighted over half have already pledged to become a Disability Confident committed employer.

Launched in 2013, the government-led scheme has three levels and encourages employers to attract, recruit and retain disabled talent.

“Disabled people make up almost 20 per cent of the working age population, many being highly qualified individuals,” said Mr Davies.

“But businesses can be reluctant to employ them, missing out on a valuable source of potential and skills.

“There are various myths surrounding disabled people taking additional sickness leave, costing money to have workplace adjustments and creating a fear of discrimination claims. All of these assumptions are incorrect.

“This voluntary initiative aims to positively change attitudes, behaviours and cultures, not just within the workplace but in business networks, their supply chains and communities.”