Ryan FowlerAt the 2024 National Health Conference hosted by UNISON, a spotlight was cast on the hurdles encountered by disabled individuals working and training within the NHS.
Annette Heslop, speaking on behalf of the nursing and midwifery occupational group, raised crucial points regarding the provision of reasonable adjustments for healthcare students on clinical placements. Given that students are not considered employees, many face significant challenges in accessing the adjustments they need, leading to a concerning dropout rate.
Heslop emphasised: “We must ensure that all students are supported on their placements,” highlighting a systemic gap in support that could potentially impact the future workforce diversity and inclusivity within the health service.
The conference also delved into the implementation of accessibility passports in the health sector, a measure designed to maintain necessary adjustments for disabled workers without the need for renegotiation upon changing roles. Despite these measures, an NHS disability survey indicated that 28% of disabled NHS workers in England are still not receiving the adjustments they are entitled to, underscoring a pressing need for improvement.
A shift in terminology from “reasonable adjustments” to “essential adjustments” was proposed, underlining the importance of these measures not merely as concessions but as crucial needs for enabling disabled employees to perform their roles effectively.
Additionally, the national disabled members’ committee advocated for clear policies on disability and carers’ leave, stressing the importance of recognising and accommodating the unique needs of disabled employees and those in caring roles.
