IMechE joins the Business Disability Forum

The Institution of Mechanical Engineers has joined the Business Disability Forum, whose mission is to remove barriers to inclusion for disabled people as customers and employees.

The Business Disability Forum supports organisations by advising on adjustments disabled people need to reduce or remove the barriers they experience in their jobs.

According to the Forum, there are around 14.6 million disabled people in the UK and about 90% of disabilities are not visible. These can include sight and hearing loss as well as illnesses such as MS and cancer.

Research shows around 1 in 7 people have a neurodiverse condition. Most people are not born with a disability – the average age for acquiring a disability is about 53.

Jo Horton, Director of Member Operations, said:

“We look forward to working with the Business Disability Forum. Inclusion is one of the Institution’s values and it is important that we make change happen by removing barriers and ensuring that our members and employees who have a disability receive the support they need.”

It is about creating an environment where colleagues can discuss barriers they may be encountering, and organisations are able to help remove those barriers.