Earlier this month, Stephen challenged the Government about delays to its promised review of the Disability Confident Scheme. Stephen’s committee criticised the Scheme - which aims to help people with disabilities find supportive employers - last year for focusing on “process rather than outcomes”.
The Disability Confident Scheme accredits employers based on how supportive they are of workers with disabilities. Employers can apply to be a Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3 Disability Confident employer by implementing certain policies and procedures. However, there is no requirement for employers to employ someone with a disability to receive accreditation.
On 12 July 2023, the Work and Pensions Select Committee, which Stephen chairs, criticised the Scheme for focusing on “process rather than outcomes”. The Government committed, in response, to a “root and branch” review and said that “officials are refining recommendations” in October 2023. The Government has still not published a review.
Stephen challenged the Government about the delay to their review on Monday 5 February. In response, the Minister said “watch this space.”