It’s not me, it’s you: better employment opportunities for disabled people

Much of the recent debate about the employment of disabled people has focused on the role the social security system may play in incentivising and supporting people to return to work. However, one of the greatest barriers faced by many disabled people is the availability of jobs that are suitable, supportive and attractive to them.

This online event will provide the opportunity to hear from three expert speakers offering unique perspectives on this challenge, and to open up a debate about what more could be done to ensure more good employment opportunities are available for disabled people, but also others who would benefit from greater flexibility, such as carers and parents.

Ben Baumberg Geiger — Professor in Social Science and Health at King’s College London, and co-lead of the Work, Welfare Reform and Mental Health programme within the ESRC Centre for Society and Mental Health. He has produced extensive research on social security, disability and work, including how changes in the labour market over time have shaped the employment opportunities and experiences of disabled people.

Catherine Hale — Associate Researcher on the Work, Welfare Reform and Mental Health programme at King’s College London. She has produced a large portfolio of campaigning research covering employment, social security and social care, with a focus on the impact that policies and services have on disabled people’s lives. Most recently, she co-authored a report on the potential of ​‘Flex Plus’ working for disability inclusion.

Wingham Rowan — Founder and CEO of UKFlexi, which aims to provide systemic support to the nonstandard workforce — i.e. people who seek employment but not a job, in order to fit around day-to-day uncertainties, such as a fluctuating health condition or caring responsibilities. The UKFlexi platform provides an alternative to ​‘gig work’, offering more protections, control, and progression for people needing personalised working arrangements.

Register to attend.