Source · Select Committees · Work and Pensions Committee
Recommendation 31
31
The pandemic has led to a sharp increase in the number of people working remotely.
Recommendation
The pandemic has led to a sharp increase in the number of people working remotely. It is clear from the evidence we heard that while remote working has created new access barriers for some disabled people, for many others it has aided their participation in the labour market. The evidence we heard suggests that the majority of disabled people want to continue working remotely after the pandemic. The Government should support their right to do so. The Government should work with employers to ensure that disabled people are supported to work in an environment that suits them best: whether this is from home or at their place of work. To that end, the Government should amend current legislation and give workers the statutory right to request remote or flexible working from of the beginning of their employment. In some industries or some roles it may not currently be feasible for workers to carry out their roles remotely. As with the existing right to request flexible working for employees with at least 26 weeks’ service, employers should follow Acas’ Code of Practice on dealing with flexible working requests in a reasonable manner, which should involve weighing the benefits of any changes against any adverse impact on the business. It should also work with employers to ensure that their places of work are inclusive and accessible for all, so that disabled people who do not want to work from home are well supported. (Paragraph 142) Disability employment gap 77
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The Cabinet Office based Disability Unit has led development of the National Disability Strategy, working across government and reporting to DWP Ministers. The National Disability Strategy was published on 28 July 2021 and aims to improve disabled people’s everyday lives. The strategies breadth is informed by one of the biggest listening exercises with disabled people in our recent history. The UK Disability Survey saw over 14,000 people respond, providing information about their everyday experiences. Engagement was also through our regional and national networks, virtual workshops and other events, alongside detailed dialogues with disabled people. The National Disability Strategy commits to reviewing the way the UK government engages with disabled people, through discussion with disabled people and disabled people’s organisations and charities. Disability employment gap: Government response 27 Conclusion I hope these responses serve to reassure the Committee of my Department’s ongoing dedication to address the disparities in employment for disabled people. As incoming Minister since the publication of the report, I am personally tremendously excited and committed to leading this work going forward and look forward to working closely with the Committee, expert stakeholders and disabled people as we build and develop our approach. Chloe Smith MP Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work