Whizz Kidz: our response to the Autumn Statement

It was announced in the Autumn Statement that people with mobility and mental health problems should work from home or lose benefits under a new policy. Disabled people must work from home to do ‘their duty’ said a UK Minister.

Sarah Pugh, CEO at Whizz Kidz said:

"At Whizz Kidz, we firmly believe that every individual, regardless of their abilities, deserves the opportunity to pursue their career aspirations without limitations. The recent proposal urging disabled individuals, particularly those with mobility and mental health challenges, to work from home or risk losing benefits overlooks the complexities many face in securing employment. This policy overlooks the fundamental challenges wheelchair users face in securing employment opportunities due to societal biases and accessibility barriers.

There exists a misconception that individuals with disabilities should be content with any remote job, disregarding their career aspirations and hard-earned qualifications. The reality is that this approach can impede their professional growth, hinder their career progression, and limit their potential contributions to society.

This policy also fails to consider the suitability of home environments for remote work, including the lack of necessary equipment, caregiving support, or space constraints. Additionally, it dismisses the fact that many young wheelchair users may face health issues that impede their ability to work full-time, making it unrealistic for them to comply with such mandates.

Moreover, the reality is that most employers still require physical presence at some point, posing significant challenges for many young wheelchair users due to health limitations or inaccessible workplaces.

At Whizz Kidz, we strive to empower young wheelchair users by providing tailored employability support. Through our initiatives, including Employability Skills Days and work placements, we equip them with the skills, confidence, and experiences necessary to pursue their desired careers. We collaborate with companies to ensure accessibility and provide Disability Awareness Training, fostering an inclusive environment for both the young wheelchair user and the hosting company. We advocate for a world where disabled people are not confined by limitations imposed by misconceptions but are given equal opportunities to thrive and contribute meaningfully in their chosen careers."

Georgia, from Kidz Board added:

"This new policy proposal is dehumanising and will limit my opportunities as a wheelchair user. It's making me scared about entering the world of work and applying for jobs. It feels like we are stepping back to covid times being and being asked to isolate and shelter for no reason.

"Furthermore, this is will have a limiting effect on opportunities for young wheelchair users to live life in society. It honestly feels like as a society we are going fifty years in the past."