Research on Employer Behaviour and Learning Disabilities

This report provides a summary of findings from recent research conducted by Inclusive Recruiting on behalf of the Fraser of Allander Institute into better understanding employers’ fears and concerns over hiring people with learning disabilities.Through interviews and an online survey, several key themes have emerged regarding barriers to hiring people with learning disabilities. These include lack of knowledge leading to prejudice, lack of accountability and organisational prioritisation, not understanding how to make recruitment accessible, not knowing where to start, and perceived cost barriers. Each theme is presented with detail, with options for improvement to address them.The following options for improvement were identified:

• The creation of an obtainable and accessible Resource Bank
• Sharing of case studies – live and online
• Build a community of practice/network
• Create volunteering, job shadowing, and placement schemes
• Design and deliver masterclasses
• Develop a central body for supporting and hiring individuals with learning disabilities.

The full report and easy read versions in two different colours are available to download.