By Peter Lee, Head of Learning and Development, Omni FM
At Omni Group, we are proud to announce our recent achievement of advancing from a Disability Confident Committed (Level 1) to a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2) status. This milestone is a testament to our unwavering commitment to inclusive recruitment and our dedication to creating a workplace that values diversity and equality. As a founding member of the Social Recruitment Advocacy Group (SRAG) and a signatory to the Social Recruitment Covenant, we are deeply invested in breaking down barriers to employment for all individuals, particularly those who face significant challenges in the labour market.
The Disability Confident scheme, launched by the UK Government in November 2016, is designed to encourage employers to recruit and retain disabled people and those with health conditions. The scheme aims to halve the disability employment gap by proactively mobilising employers to create an inclusive workplace environment.
The Disability Confident scheme, launched by the UK Government in November 2016, is designed to encourage employers to recruit and retain disabled people and those with health conditions. The scheme aims to halve the disability employment gap by proactively mobilising employers to create an inclusive workplace environment.
To achieve Level 2 status, we underwent a rigorous self-assessment process, focusing on two key themes: “Getting the right people for your business” and “Keeping and developing your people.” This involved implementing new recruitment practices, accessibility policies, and other measures to attract and retain employees with disabilities.
As a Disability Confident Employer, we are committed to equal opportunities for people with disabilities. This includes adopting more inclusive recruitment practices, interviewing disabled candidates who meet the minimum job requirements, and providing reasonable adjustments and assistive technology to ensure an accessible working environment.
Our journey to Level 2 status is about compliance and creating a culture that champions equality and inclusivity. A diverse and inclusive workplace drives innovation, improves corporate culture, and enhances brand perception.
As a proud founding member of the SRAG and a signatory to the Social Recruitment Covenant, we are part of a growing movement of employers committed to active social recruitment. SRAG encourages employers to emphasise recruiting disadvantaged people in the labour market, including young people, individuals with disabilities, and those who have been through the criminal justice system.
The Social Recruitment Covenant, launched in November 2024, is a pledge to adopt inclusive recruitment and employment practices to help people overcome barriers to employment. This initiative, supported by major UK employers, is designed to increase workplace diversity and tackle economic inactivity across the UK.
The employment gap between disabled and non-disabled people is significant. By becoming a Disability Confident Employer and participating in initiatives like SRAG and the Social Recruitment Covenant, we contribute to a broader effort to address this gap and create a more equitable labour market.
Omni Group’s achievement of Disability Confident Employer status is a proud moment, reflecting our hard work and dedication to inclusive recruitment. We look forward to continuing our journey, striving for Level 3 Disability Confident Leader status, and inspiring other employers to join us in this important mission.