That’s according to research commissioned by Hilton exploring the barriers facing businesses when it comes to welcoming those with learning disabilities into their workforce.
60% of those hospitality businesses surveyed admitted they don’t think UK companies are doing enough to be inclusive.
Employers highlighted a perceived lack of suitable roles (30%), not believing they have the right infrastructure in place to support those with a learning disability (26%) and concerns about the cost of additional training (21%) as the key barriers to recruitment.
Despite the challenges employers face, the research demonstrated the significant value of employing those with learning disabilities with nine in ten employers who had hired someone with a learning disability confirmed that they met or exceeded expectations.
Businesses highlighted a significant increase in empathy amongst their teams (62%), stronger team bonds (48%) and an improved understanding about the value of a diverse workforce (45%) as some of the broader benefits of recruiting those with a learning disability.
Despite this, only 42% of businesses said they are likely to hire someone with a learning disability in the future.
To help other businesses overcome the perceived challenges around employing someone with a learning disability, Hilton is launching an educational workshop in partnership with the Down’s Syndrome Association and Aurora Foxes, a specialist training college that provides training, work experience and employment opportunities to young adults with learning disabilities.
The free workshop will take place in early September. Businesses can register early interest here.
Hilton’s research also found that nearly nine in 10 adults with learning disabilities struggle to find employment with almost 80% saying that fear of being judged at interview put them off applying for a role altogether.
“Building an inclusive workplace which allows every individual to thrive is fundamental to the success of any business. We’ve seen first-hand the benefits of supporting those with learning disabilities, welcoming some exceptional talent into our business in partnership with the Down’s Syndrome Association and Aurora Foxes," says Hilton UK & Ireland senior vice president and managing director Stephen Cassidy.
"But this research shows there is a real opportunity to empower more businesses to embrace this wealth of talent. We hope that by sharing our experience, we can inspire other employers to provide much-needed job opportunities for those with learning disabilities and help them reap the benefits that a diverse workforce brings – from employee engagement to business performance.”