Marvin OnumonuGateshead Access to Employment Service (GATES) has called on local employers to hire more Disabled workers to help boost their business.
The team, run by Gateshead Council, supports adults with learning disabilities and neurodiverse people to gain skills and find work.
GATES also helps businesses recruit a more diverse workforce.
The service currently supports over 50 clients in more than 30 organisations across the North East, including Primark, IKEA, Savills and MMCS Commercial Cleaning.
GATES said they can help employers access a wider pool of candidates and build a workforce that reflects their customers.
Councillor John Adams, cabinet member for adult social care at Gateshead Council, said: “On average, Disabled workers are paid less than non-Disabled workers and are much more likely to be unemployed.
“This situation is simply wrong, and we need to do more to support Disabled people into the workplace and to gain new skills.
“Lots of employers already know that it widens their talent pool when recruiting and can help their bottom line.”
Adams added: “I’d encourage local businesses to get in touch with the GATES team next time you are hiring.”
