SUPPORT FOR DISABLED PEOPLE IN EMPLOYMENT

That this House notes that each year 25,000 people permanently leave employment due to work-related illness or disability; believes that, with early intervention and the right help and support, many of these people could remain in, or return to, work and continue to contribute to the economy; further believes that greater awareness is needed amongst employers regarding their duties under the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 to make reasonable adjustments, such as time away from work for rehabilitation and retraining, for staff who are at risk of leaving work due to serious illness or disability; and welcomes measures contained in the Employment Retention Bill to ensure that people who experience ill-health or disability whilst in work are supported to retain their employment whenever possible.