Help Improve Employment Opportunities for People with Learning Disabilities
Posted on Mar 02, 2026 Tags: Industry NewsUpdate from the Department for Work and Pensions.
Across the UK, people with learning disabilities still face barriers to finding and staying in work. Recent research shows that although individuals with learning disabilities can and do thrive in the workplace, many employers feel unsure about how best to recruit or support them.
At the same time, people with learning disabilities report significant challenges even before they get into work.
About the Strategic Relationship Team Learning Disabilities Project
The Learning Disabilities Project is working to improve employment outcomes by:
- Understanding the real barriers employers and jobseekers face
- Promoting inclusive recruitment and workplace practices
- Developing practical tools, including clear guidance, employer case studies and sector‑specific support
- Building strong links between employers, training partners and local communities
This year, we are focusing on gathering high‑quality employer insight to shape smarter, more practical support for businesses and jobseekers alike.
We Need Your Insight — Take Our Short Employer Survey
To help us build the right support for organisations of all sizes, we’re inviting employers to complete a short survey on:
- How you currently recruit and support people with learning disabilities
- Any challenges you face during recruitment or onboarding
- What tools, training or guidance would help
- Whether you already employ or are open to employing people with learning disabilities
Your feedback will directly shape the next phase of the DWP Learning Disabilities Project, including the design of practical employer resources, inclusive recruitment guidance and future partnerships.
The survey can be accessed at Improving Employment Opportunities for People with Learning Disabilities
