According to the Office for National Statistics, approximately 10% of people employed in H&F in 2023 identify as Disabled.
There is also evidence from GOV.UK that self-employment rates are higher amongst Disabled individuals than those without a disability, with 25% of small business owners identifying as Disabled.
If you are Disabled and would like to find out more about becoming self-employed or starting your own business, the resources below could be worth looking through.
Opportunities and support
- The Ability Connect Disabled Entrepreneurs Enterprise Programme, designed for Disabled entrepreneurs by a Disabled entrepreneur, in collaboration with Leicester University.
- The Kaleidoscope Group offer businesses start up training, recruitment platforms, grants and employer training for Disabled candidates.
- A Disability Grants platform that makes it easier to search for specific grants based on different categories.
- A platform providing a voice and networking opportunities for Disabled Entrepreneurs in the UK with several blogging and publication opportunities.
- A GOV.UK Access to Work grant that funds practical support according to individual needs for Disabled people to help start work, stay in work or move into self-employment/entrepreneurship.
- The British Association for Supported Employment is an organisation that focuses on the delivery of high-quality supported employment services and work to improve the employment rates of Disabled people.
Sources for further information
- This GOV.UK resource focuses on how to improve lives through work by increasing opportunities for Disabled people to work: Improving lives: the future of work, health and Disability.
- This resource from GOV.UK focuses on better understanding the experiences and challenges of disabled people who are self-employed: Understanding self-employment for people with disabilities and health conditions.