A major new package of support for employers has been unveiled by West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin, aiming to close the disability employment gap and boost productivity.
The new scheme, launched on March 9, is part of the £37 million Healthy Working Life partnership between the Mayor and the NHS.
It will help employers across West Yorkshire recruit and retain more people with health conditions and disabilities, while also tackling economic inactivity and improving living standards in the region.
From March 9, employers can access fully funded training to adopt more inclusive hiring practices.
At least 250 training places are being made available, delivered both online and in person. The training gives businesses practical tools to recruit inclusively, retain skilled staff, make effective workplace adjustments, and improve staff wellbeing.
Alongside the training, a new comprehensive toolkit has been launched to support employers. The toolkit brings together legal guidance, step-by-step instructions, interactive resources, and video case studies from local employers.
It covers every step of the employment journey, from advertising jobs and conducting interviews to progression and long-term retention of staff.
The package aims to break down barriers faced by people with disabilities or health conditions seeking work in West Yorkshire, where employment levels are lower than the national average.
Mayor Tracy Brabin said: “West Yorkshire cannot reach its economic potential while thousands of talented people remain locked out of work through no fault of their own.
“With lower than average employment, our region is home to thousands of grafters who desperately want to work but haven’t received the right support with their disability or health condition. With this new training and toolkit for employers, we’re building a fairer, stronger economy where businesses are enabled to become more productive, and people are empowered to secure new jobs and support their families.
“By joining up health, employment and business support together, we’re demonstrating that devolution is working for West Yorkshire.”
Businesses can also apply for a graduate recruitment grant of £1,800 and get help to connect with people who have the right skills for their vacancies.
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The announcement comes ahead of a meeting of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority on March 12, where local leaders are expected to approve an uplift in funding for Employment West Yorkshire and consider the emerging Region of Learning and Creativity Strategy.
Employers are encouraged to visit the Combined Authority website for more information about the Healthy Working Life support.Business
