We are proud to be a Disability Confident Committed employer, reflecting our dedication to creating inclusive, respectful and accessible opportunities for people with disabilities. This commitment is embedded in everything we do, from how we recruit and support our team to how we deliver training across the health and social care sector. Our approach is shaped by lived experience. Many of our trainers and co-trainers are autistic or have a learning disability, and we work closely with each individual to ensure their strengths are recognised and supported. This includes flexible induction processes, personalised communication methods and practical adjustments such as accessible transport, support with Access to Work applications and inclusive team events. We believe that inclusion starts with opportunity. For many of our co-trainers, joining 1Stop has been their first paid role. We have created a supportive environment where people feel valued, respected and able to grow professionally and personally. From mentoring new co-trainers to celebrating achievements, we are committed to championing disability inclusion at every level.

Inclusion is a journey, and we continuously reflect on our practices, listen to feedback and make improvements to ensure we are doing better every day. Being Disability Confident means more than meeting a standard. It means actively working to remove barriers, challenge stigma and promote equity in the workplace and beyond.

As part of this journey, we work closely with Step2Skills, Hertfordshire County Council’s adult community learning and employment support service. Step2Skills provides opportunities for adults in Hertfordshire to access learning and employment, especially those facing barriers such as low skills, learning or physical disabilities and mental health conditions. Together, we have supported employment pathways for people who have a learning disability or who are autistic. Our collaboration has included participating in inclusive job fairs, working with local job centres and meeting with the Stevenage MP to highlight the importance of inclusive employment. These shared efforts reflect our belief that meaningful change happens through partnership, community engagement and a shared commitment to equity.