Around 79 per cent of disabled employees experience burnout, nearly double the rate of non-disabled workers, as potential £5 billion Personal Independence Payments (PIP) cuts could push more people into unprepared workplaces, according to Barnett Waddingham.
The report also found that 86 per cent of physically disabled workers suffer work-related health issues, compared to 35 per cent of non-disabled employees, and 25 per cent say their workplace fails to provide reasonable adjustments for neurodiversity.
Support is further restricted by fear of discrimination since 52 per cent of disabled employees choose not to disclose their neurodiversity at work. This lack of inclusion impacts wellbeing, as 76 per cent feel inadequate compared to 37 per cent of their peers without disabilities.
According to BW, more disabled people would be forced into the workforce if the reported cuts are confirmed in the Spring Statement on March 26. However, employers might still lack accessible workplaces. BW reports that 30 per cent of disabled workers believe that the best help an employer can provide is paid mental health leave, 26 per cent prioritise flexible work schedules and 26 per cent advocate for frequent mental health check-ins.
BW partner and head of platform and benefits Julia Turney says: “The Government is pushing to get more disabled people into work, but we know that disabled individuals often face worse outcomes once employed, including higher rates of burnout, health issues, and feelings of inadequacy.
“If more disabled individuals are likely to enter the workforce, employers must take swift action to adjust working conditions and benefits to support this increase in staff. This means ensuring reasonable accommodations, flexible working arrangements, and targeted mental health support are in place. Failing to do so will not only harm employee wellbeing but might also lead to higher turnover and lower productivity.”
