Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council has been awarded AAA Disability Positive Accreditation by Employers for Disability NI.
This award, which is the only local accreditation of its kind in NI, recognises the council as an employer that actively promotes workplace equality, diversity and inclusion.
As a member of Employers for Disability NI, the council undertook the Disability Positive Accreditation audit earlier this year, carrying out a comprehensive review of its disability-related employment practices to assess current strengths and identify areas for improvement to enhance standards.
Among the key strengths demonstrated by the council were its proactive approach to removing barriers to recruitment, providing extensive support and reasonable adjustments for disabled employees as well as ensuring equal access to training and development opportunities so that disabled employees can develop in their roles.
The award highlights that between 70% and 90% of disability good practice actions are in place across the council.
“On behalf of the council, and in my role as a Diversity Ambassador, I am delighted to accept this highly respected award”, commented Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Mary O’Dowd.
“Equality, diversity and inclusion continue to be a key priority for our organisation and this AAA accreditation highlights our ongoing commitment to creating an inclusive workplace where all our employees feel supported, valued and empowered.”
The three As – audit, action and accreditation – highlight the steps the council has taken to support and promote a culture that is disability positive across the organisation.
Presenting the council with the accreditation, Employers For Disability NI Director of Operations, Gabrielle Fitzpatrick said:
‘’It was clear from our audit that the Council has made tremendous efforts to recruit and support disabled people. The progress made is extremely impressive and a credit to the Councillors and staff.”
To learn more about the Disability Positive Accreditation, click here.
