Disabled workers paid less than counterparts

Non-disabled workers are paid around 12.2% more than those with disabilities, according to new data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

The ONS said the median hourly wage for disabled workers was £10.63 in 2018 however, non-disabled workers are paid £12.11 per hour.

Those with mental impairments to include, depression, epilepsy, learning difficulties and anxiety, the gap widened at 18.6%.

London saw the highest pay gap for workers at 15.3%, between workers with or without disability, while Scotland being the narrowest at 8.3%.

Dr Jill Miller at human resources association, the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) said, “Too many disabled people continue to face prejudice and struggle to get into employment or to remain in work, and are less likely to progress to senior management roles or to work in professional occupations.

“Businesses that aren’t inclusive and don’t manage health and disability effectively risk missing out on hard-working and talented individuals and damaging their reputation among staff and customers.

“They could also face legal action if they fail to comply with equalities law.”

The ONS uses the Government Statistical Service (GSS) definition to define disability, which identifies a person who has a physical or mental health condition that is expected to last 12 months or more.