August 27, 2024
By Lucy Ashton
NHS Golden Jubilee’s commitment to providing an inclusive workplace has once again been recognised.
For the third time in a row, the UK Government has awarded the Golden Jubilee Disability Confident Leader status to the West Dunbartonshire hospital, reaffirming the national NHS Board’s commitment to championing the rights of people with disabilities.
First awarded to NHS Golden Jubilee in 2018, Disability Confident is a UK Government initiative that encourages employers to create an inclusive environment for employees and job applicants, ensuring that everyone has equal access to opportunities.
Accreditation is valid for three years, after which organisations undergo a rigorous reaccreditation process where they have to demonstrate how they are going above and beyond standard practices.
Since its last accreditation in 2021, the national NHS Board has launched a Staff Ability Network and rolled out the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower across its site.
NHS Golden Jubilee also continues to:
- Provide inclusive recruitment processes with reasonable adjustments for people who may need support during the application and interview process.
- Work in partnership with Jobcentre Plus and third sector organisations to access support for staff.
- Mentor suppliers, partners and local businesses to embrace Disability Confident principles.
Laura Smith, Director of People and Culture, commented: “NHS Golden Jubilee is dedicated to fostering a culture of equality and inclusion, ensuring that every staff member and patient is valued, respected, and empowered to thrive in a discrimination-free environment.
“By retaining Disability Confident Leader status, we continue to support our current and future staff while also helping other employers on their journey.
“Together, we champion diversity and strive for excellence through the unique perspectives and contributions of all.”
Disability Confident
The Disability Confident scheme supports employers to make the most of the talents disabled people can bring to the workplace.
The scheme is voluntary and access to guidance, self-assessments and resources is free.
Right glad am I that the NHS has the funding to implement policies that, and I quote ” the promotion of positive engagement with staff with disabilities, impairments, long term and neuro divergent condition through education, positive well being practices, and flexible approaches to employment working practices.”
Quite, quite incredible really, but it sound like the NHS has more issues with staff than the patients who need care. I mean a Network ability unit has also been set up to support these support objectives whilst meanwhile, through lack of funding waiting lists grow,
But recognise this too from the highly paid Director of People and Culture –
“By retaining Disability Confident Leader status, we continue to support our current and future staff while also helping other employers on their journey.
“Together, we champion diversity and strive for excellence through the unique perspectives and contributions of all.”
And you thought you wanted patient healthcare?