Disability Pay Gap Reaches Highest Level Since 2013

In 2017, the average hourly pay for disabled people was £9.90, while non-disabled workers made £11.40. This is according to a new report from the TUC, finding that the disability pay gap has now risen to its highest level in five years – peaking at 15 per cent.

The study also found that disabled people are less likely to be in work in the first place, and when they are employed they’re paid less than their non-disabled colleagues.

Other key findings included that disabled people are more likely to have a job in lower-paid occupations, while there are fewer disabled people with higher levels of education – which may make it more difficult for them to attain jobs with higher rates of pay.

Commenting on the findings, TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady said: “Too many disabled people face lower pay and worse jobs than their non-disabled peers.

“New rules to make bosses reveal gender pay gaps have been successful at shining a light on the problem. We’d like the government to consider a similar law requiring employers to publish their disability pay gap, along with the steps they will take to close it.

“The government should also reverse cuts to disability benefits, which are making it harder for disabled people to cover extra costs to get to work. And employers should talk to their disabled workers about how to make work more accessible.”

She went on to recommend joining a union, as reps will have experience in negotiating with companies to ensure that people get the support they need.

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