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Celebration, Collaboration, Consolidation Conference 18 November 2004 “We can work it out” With Martin Howell, Chair, Employers’ Forum on Disability Mike Rosbotham, General Catering Manager, Sodexho Employers’ Forum on Disability (NI) •Not for profit organisation •Membership led •102 members •Dennis Licence, President, EFD •Nuala McKeever, Patron •Registered Charity 1996 Employers’ Forum on Disability (NI) Mission Statement: “The Employers’ Forum on Disability (NI) promotes the business benefits of fair treatment for people with disabilities. It represents the interests of employers and provides a range of services, which enhance the employability of people with disabilities.” “Try to see it my way….” What are the current pressures facing employers? • • • • • Staying competitive Regulatory pressures Society’s expectations Media scrutiny Attracting and retaining the best staff What are the current business drivers for employers? • • • • • Corporate Social Responsibility Diversity Corporate Reputation Deliverer of Good Practice Employer of Choice Why might an employer recruit/retain people disability? • • • • • Representative of local community Customer interface – commercial benefits Employee awareness – good practice Retain skills/experience – cost savings Right thing to do Employment of people with disabilities – what works best? • • • • • • • Clear policy on disability in place Centrally owned – line management driven Access to service providers Training for line managers/supervisors/colleagues Guidance of support worker Regular review Training and development of individual Workshop discussion – Suggested topics • What are your experience of employer relationship building? • What more would you like employers to do? • How might we strengthen the relationship and produce greater outcomes?