Two Ticks for Council employment services

10.24.15am GMT Mon 8th Sep 2008

• THE Two Ticks symbol, which recognises employers who provide job opportunities for people with disabilities, has been awarded to Richmond Council.

The symbol is given out by Jobcentre Plus, part of the Department for Work and Pensions, to businesses and organisations that have agreed to make commitments regarding the employment, retention, training and career development of disabled employees. This includes ensuring to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for a vacancy, to meet at least once a year with disabled employees to discuss how to develop their skills and ensure that all staff develop the appropriate level of disability awareness. The Council is now looking to encourage businesses and organisations in the borough to follow its lead.

Cllr Denise Carr, Cabinet Member for Adult Services, Health and Housing on Richmond Council, said: "I'm extremely pleased we have been granted the Two Ticks as it recognises our long term commitment to offering jobs to people with disabilities. It is essential that people with disabilities have the same opportunities to develop their careers as non-disabled people. Providing the chance for interviews, employment and training is a vital part of this. I now call on other employers in the borough to follow our lead and gain Two Ticks status for themselves."