We don't see anyone like us in jobs, say people with Down's syndrome
A lack of visible workplace role models is a big barrier to seeking employment for those with learning disabilities such as Down's syndrome or autism, a study has found.
There are about 1.3 million people with learning disabilities in the UK, but only about 5 per cent are employed.
Three quarters of people with a learning disability would be more confident in applying for jobs if they saw similar people in customer-facing roles, according to the research by the polling company Savanta.
Only 16 per cent of employed people with learning disabilities said they knew someone they could learn from with a similar condition in the workforce.
More than 500 people with learning disabilities and their carers took part in the survey, conducted for the Hilton hotel group. Only a quarter of carers said they had ever been served by someone with a learning disability.
A separate poll of 2,000 consumers found high support among the general public for having people with learning disabilities in customer service jobs. Three quarters of respondents said there were not enough people with such disabilities working in hospitality jobs, and more than nine in ten said it was important to see staff from all backgrounds in such roles.
Although more than half of the UK's disabled population were in work last year, the share for those with a learning disability was only 5 per cent
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Sam Innes, a food and beverage assistant with Down's syndrome at the Waldorf Hilton in London, said it had been a relief to find work at the hotel after struggling to find a job.
'I've always wanted to work and be around people, and I knew a hotel would be the perfect place to do that,' he said. 'Having a job helps people with learning disabilities feel valued and shows others what we can achieve when given the chance. It's boosted my confidence and helped me become more independent.'
Mark Costello, principal at Aurora Foxes, a hospitality college that supports young people with learning disabilities, said: 'When people with learning disabilities see others like themselves thriving in customer-facing roles, it inspires confidence and ambition.'
Stephen Cassidy, senior vice-president of Hilton in the UK and Ireland, said: 'Representation matters — seeing people like yourself succeed at work builds confidence and opens doors to career opportunity.
'Our team members with learning disabilities contribute across a wide range of roles, from front-of-house positions like reception and concierge to behind the scenes work in kitchens, housekeeping, and revenue management.'
A diverse team brought 'unique strengths' and 'enrich[es] our culture,' Cassidy added. 'By providing the right support and fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, we empower individuals to reach their full potential and demonstrate that inclusion is a powerful driver of success in hospitality.'
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