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21 February

EFD responds to new ONS statistics

Responding to new research from the Office for National Statistics, Employers' Forum on Disability (EFD) broadly welcomes figures suggesting more people are aware of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA).

An awareness of the act, particularly among service providers, is vital if disabled people are to achieve equality.

EFD still believes that there is still much progress to be made however, and that these figures should be approached with caution.

In particular, a recent survey undertaken by EFD and RADAR (Royal Association for Disability and Rehabilitation) found that 83% of disabled people had 'walked away', unable or unwilling to make a purchase, with the main reason inaccessible premises.

The survey, which asked 373 disabled people, also found that transport was the most problematic service for disabled users, with 59% saying it was the most difficult to use.

The DDA is an evolving piece of legislation, so EFD recommends that as well as addressing the legal practicalities of the DDA, both employers and service providers should rather adopt a best practice approach towards disabled staff and customers.

By doing so business will be treating disabled people fairly and will also reap the benefits of disability confidence.

Ends

For media enquiries please contact:

Issy Rule
EFD PR & Communications Coordinator
Employers' Forum on Disability press office
Email: issy.rule@employers-forum.co.uk
Telephone: 020 7403 3020

About Employers' Forum on Disability

Employers' Forum on Disability is the employers' organisation focused on disability as it affects employers and service providers.

With over 400 members, EFD represents organisations that employ around 25 per cent of the UK workforce.

Since its establishment in 1991, EFD has worked closely with government and other stakeholders, sharing best practice to make it easier to employ disabled people and serve disabled customers.