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<p>The previous Positive about Disability (Two Ticks) scheme has been replaced by
the new Disability Confident scheme, which was formally launched on 2 November 2016
with attendant publicity aimed at both employers and disabled people. Prior to the
change there were about 3,500 employers listed as “Two Ticks”. There are currently
more than 2,400 employers signed up to Disability Confident, with that number growing
daily.</p><p> </p><p>The new scheme has been designed to give employers the tools
they need to recruit, retain and develop disabled staff. Employers currently registered
with the Two Ticks scheme are invited to transfer to Disability Confident. If they
accept, they are sent the Disability Confident Employer self-assessment pack and allowed
12 months to undertake the self-assessment.</p><p> </p><p>Some employers have chosen
to undertake the self-assessment straight away. In submitting details to be awarded
Disability Confident Employer, the employer is required to confirm that they have
undertaken the self-assessment.</p><p> </p><p>No validation of the self-assessment
is required. However, to reach the highest level of Disability Confident Leader, a
business must put that assessment up for external challenge, which could include examination
by disabled groups, disabled staff networks or professional assessment bodies.</p><p>
</p><p>The new Disability Confident scheme went live in a test and learn phase from
July 2016. Feedback was considered and changes made to the scheme before it was launched
on 2<sup>nd</sup> November. The effectiveness of the scheme will now be closely monitored,
looking at the number of employers signed up by sector and by geographic area, as
well as such issues as what offers of employment, apprenticeships, internships, etc.
they are making and delivering.</p>
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