Two ticks for good Groundwork

Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale recently became a Disability Symbol user thanks to the help and support received from Disability Employment Advisors at Oldham Jobcentre.

The ‘Two Ticks’ symbol means Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale clarifies that Groundwork is ‘Positive About Disabled People’ and the contribution they can make within the workplace.

Cliff Ellison, Executive Director, Groundwork Oldham & Rochdale, said: “We are really pleased to receive this award from Jobcentre Plus. It is a visible sign of our commitment to provide equal opportunities in all areas of our activities and a further reflection of the change that is taking place here.”

Being a Disability Symbol user will help Groundwork promote the message that the organisation is committed to employing disabled people and to raising disability awareness amongst all staff.

With the symbol awarded less than a week ago, Groundwork has already been able to put the first of five employer commitments – the offer of a guaranteed interview for any disabled applicant who meets the minimum criteria for a vacancy – into practice.

Other commitments include ensuring there is a mechanism in place for disabled employees to discuss how they can best develop and use their abilities, and making efforts to ensure employees can stay in work should they become disabled during the course of their employment. Even simple steps like Groundwork’s open door policy can reassure employees that they can raise health concerns with their line manager at the earliest opportunity.