In collaboration with the Reward and Employee Benefits Association (REBA), Bupa conducted a comprehensive report to gain deeper insights into the lives and experiences of disabled employees, those with long-term or chronic illnesses and individuals with impairments or conditions in the workplace.
The "Disability in the Workplace 2023" report surveyed over 300 employed individuals who identified as belonging to one of these groups. The findings shed light on the challenges they face and the changes required in workplaces to create a more inclusive environment.
The report gathered data in two ways: a survey conducted in June 2023 and a series of virtual round tables and interviews with HR, reward and benefits directors from various sectors.
Survey Results:
Demographics: Of the 580 individuals surveyed, 303 identified as disabled, having a long-term or chronic illness, or having an impairment or condition. For comparison, 277 employees who did not belong to these groups were also surveyed.
Career Progression: Over half (51%) of the respondents from the target groups believed that their disability or health condition served as a barrier to advancing in their careers.
Employer Support: A significant minority (34%) felt that their employers could do more to support them in the workplace.
Willingness to Share: An encouraging 65% of disabled employees expressed their willingness to openly discuss their experiences to help employers better understand their needs.
Flexibility Matters: The top benefit sought by disabled workers to succeed at work was greater flexibility. This included the ability to work remotely, take longer breaks, attend medical appointments, or customise their roles. Alarmingly, fewer than one in five (18%) disabled employees currently have access to flexible working arrangements.
Desired Employee Benefits: The top five benefits desired by disabled employees included income protection (50%), support with everyday health costs (43%), paid counselling or mental health support (43%), a payment if diagnosed with a critical illness (38%) and flexibility in job design (38%).
Key Findings and Implications:
The "Disability in the Workplace 2023" report reveals critical insights that businesses must heed to create more inclusive and supportive workplaces:
Inclusive Culture: A significant portion of disabled employees feel that their disability is a barrier to career progression. This underscores the importance of businesses fostering inclusive cultures where employees feel empowered and supported.
Communication and Engagement: Employees are willing to share their experiences, indicating a desire for open dialogue and communication. Businesses should actively engage with their workforce to better understand their unique needs.
Flexibility is Paramount: Greater flexibility in work arrangements is a top priority for disabled employees. Businesses should explore flexible working options to accommodate medical appointments and diverse work needs.
Desired Employee Benefits: The top five desired benefits highlight the importance of financial security and support for everyday health and mental well-being. Businesses should consider offering these benefits to help their employees live healthier and happier lives.
Career Barriers: It is essential to recognise that disabled employees perceive their conditions as more significant barriers to career development compared to those with long-term or chronic illnesses. This distinction emphasises the need for tailored support and accommodations.
The "Disability in the Workplace 2023" report - a collaborative effort between Bupa and REBA - illuminates the challenges faced by disabled employees, individuals with long-term or chronic illnesses, impairments, or conditions. It highlights the need to create a more inclusive and supportive work environment where employees can thrive and progress in their careers. Greater flexibility, open communication and tailored employee benefits are essential steps in making the workplace better for all, regardless of their abilities or health conditions. Businesses that act on these findings will not only benefit their employees but also foster a more diverse and inclusive workforce.
