The Trust has been recognised for its forward-thinking work to improve employment opportunities for disabled people by being awarded Disability Confident Accreditation.
The accreditation is a government-supported initiative that aims to help employers create more inclusive workplaces for individuals with disabilities and provides organisations with guidance and best practices for attracting, recruiting, and retaining disabled employees.
MWL has been awarded "Disability Confident Leader" status, the highest level of accreditation possible, reflecting the ‘inclusive and accessible recruitment process used by the organisation, the way it makes workplace adjustments, and ensures that staff are given relevant equality training.’
The Trust is one of only 550 employers in England to have obtained the Leader status out of the country’s 18,900 accredited organisations,
Anne-Marie Stretch, Deputy Chief Executive and HR Director, said: “I'm delighted that MWL has achieved Disability Confident Leader accreditation status.
"The award symbolises our unwavering dedication to fostering a supportive workplace for all our colleagues. Achieving the highest possible level of accreditation is a testament to the hard work and excellence we strive for at MWL. Receiving recognition for the support we provide to disabled colleagues and the broader community is thrilling.”
John McLuckie, Director of Strategic Resourcing, said: “The attainment of the Disability Confident Leader accreditation is a testament to the Trust's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. Throughout my career, I have been deeply dedicated to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) and I consider it a privilege to advocate for EDI and the disability agenda at MWL. I am enthusiastic about collaborating with the Abilities@MWL staff network to further enhance our support systems for all our colleagues and prospective members of the MWL family.”
Tony Lockhart, Staff side Lead/ UNISON Branch Secretary, added: “UNISON is thrilled that Mersey and West Lancashire Teaching Hospitals has achieved recognition in the Disability Confident scheme for employers.
“It shows how committed the Trust is in recruiting from the widest possible pool of talent – and retaining that talent. Being a Disability Confident Leader really shows the Trust values in embracing inclusion. By building a diverse workforce that reflects communities, we can better serve our local communities. This official accolade says Mersey and West Lancashire Teaching Hospitals is an employer that cares.”