Workplace Support for Learning Disabilities Falls Short, Hilton Study Finds

New research from Hilton shows that two thirds (66%) of those with a learning disability say their employers have not asked them what they need to succeed in their roles. As a result, nearly six in 10 (57%) feel like the company they work for isn’t equipped to support them.

The research of more than 2,000 people in the UK, including 500 people with learning disabilities such as Down’s Syndrome and Autistic Spectrum Disorder, and their carers, gives a clear indication as to how employers can improve experiences and prospects of those questioned.

Those with a learning disability cited a number of reasons as to why keeping a job was difficult, but relationships were at the heart of the challenges; almost half (49%) said they did not have the right support from their employer while 44% said they did not get the right support from their team/colleagues.

Counsel to employers

There is also clear counsel from those questioned to employers when it comes to improving workplace support. Over half of people (56%) want more on-the-job training, and 38% say they would like to see the introduction of a mentor or buddy system for additional support.

Partnerships are key

Working with industry partners has been integral in enabling Hilton to improve workplace support across its UK hotels. For example, Hilton’s 10-year partnership with Aurora Foxes, a hospitality college and training hotel supporting young people with learning disabilities, has provided bespoke training, work experience and employment opportunities to 89 people across Hilton, with 19 former students currently building careers within Hilton’s hotels.

Similarly, Hilton’s long-standing partnership with the Down’s Syndrome Association’s WorkFit programme has opened doors for talented individuals, resulting in 55 individuals receiving work placements across the UK with 43 individuals currently working at Hilton hotels.

Stephen Cassidy, senior vice president, UK & Ireland, Hilton, said: “The key to unlocking the power of people with learning disabilities, and allowing them to really excel in the workplace, is the strength of our partnerships. Our Team Members feel supported by our partners, who offer their expertise on how to integrate team members into the work force. From introducing buddy systems to train and support new team members, to offering flexibility with shorter shifts and part-time roles, their advice has been invaluable. Working together with our partners, we are committed to building an inclusive workforce that reflects the diversity of our communities, and we hope it inspires other businesses to do the same.”

Hospitable workplaces

The study also reveals when it comes to the industries where people with a learning disability and their carers think they can succeed – retail (44%) and hospitality and tourism (43%) come top. Three in five (61%) individuals with learning disabilities also note their previous roles in hospitality, underlining the sector’s valuable role in improving employment outcomes.

Public support for better opportunities

The research also clearly shows that the public believes better career opportunities should be offered to people with learning disabilities. Eight in 10 (82%) believe companies should give access to better job prospects to people with learning disabilities.

The latest Mencap figures show that there are 1.5 million people with learning disabilities in the UK, but just 5% are currently employed.

Moreover, 94% of respondents who have interacted with a person who has a learning disability in a service setting said it was a positive experience. A further seven in 10 (69%) say that their experience inspired them to think differently about people with learning disabilities and the overwhelming majority (86%) think someone with a learning disability can excel in the workplace.

Alison Thwaite, head of employment services, Down’s Syndrome Association, said: “Employers play a crucial role in creating the right environments for people with learning disabilities to thrive at work. Having systems in place like mentoring support resources and training can ensure that your existing employees and new colleagues who have disabilities will feel supported and can build on a solid foundation for success. The positive presence of individuals with learning disabilities greatly enhances workplace culture and by working closely with employers, we can bring diverse perspectives and foster an inclusive community where everyone can flourish. We are delighted to see increasing numbers of employers embracing the opportunities to enhance their organisational health through effective supported employment partnerships like the Down’s Syndrome Association’s WorkFit programme.”

George Griffiths, kitchen assistant, Hilton London Kensington, said: “I highly recommend a career in hospitality to anyone, including people with learning disabilities. Working has definitely boosted my confidence. I’m proud to be working at a fantastic hotel surrounded by kind and charming people. I feel more capable of going out and taking on responsibilities, and I’ve realised that I’m just as capable as anyone else.”

When asked about how the support he receives to help him succeed in his role, George said, “I have been given enough time to finish my tasks and to slow down. This has helped in being able to do one thing at a time. The changes help me feel less stressed and more confident in my work. It also helps me not to feel burnt out.”