HR File: Don’t discriminate, accommodate

With Starbucks having been fined in a disability discrimination case after accusing an employee with dyslexia of falsifying documents, Bella MacLaren from Dyslexia Action offers some advice for HR professionals on how to avoid missteps when it comes to accommodating this common, yet hidden, disability.

With the right support disabled people can be a valuable asset to the workplace. For instance, people with dyslexia are often excellent problem solvers and have great communication skills.

Businesses often say employees are their greatest strength, so it is worth considering what an employer can do to ensure success in its dyslexia support.

Show commitment

• Look towards the Positive about Disabled People (‘two ticks’) award; a symbol awarded by Jobcentre Plus to organisations that have a proven commitment to hiring disabled people. There will be standards to meet – such as guaranteeing interviews to disabled candidates who meet the criteria for job vacancies – but this will demonstrate that you are serious about being an inclusive workplace.