Disability Support at Department for Transport

Supporting Disabled Talent & Workplace Accessibility

1. Inclusion Strategy: "Different People, One Team"

DfT’s overarching diversity and inclusion framework centres on creating an environment where everyone can thrive. Key commitments relating to disabled colleagues include:

• Inclusive & Equitable Culture: Striving to be one of the most inclusive departments in the Civil Service and actively removing barriers to career progression.
• Representation: Focus on increasing representation of underrepresented groups across all grades and roles, particularly in senior positions where gaps are largest.
• Staff Networks: Supporting employee-led staff networks (including disability networks) that are given an active platform to represent disabled colleagues and advocate for best practice.

2. Physical & Technological Support

To enable staff to carry out their roles comfortably, DfT offers dedicated provisions:

• Reasonable Adjustments & Workplace Equipment: DfT maintains a structured process to ensure that if a staff member needs specific equipment, workplace adaptations, or tailored training to do their job, it is provided.
• Accessible Infrastructure: Continuous updates and improvements are made to building facilities, technology, and systems to maintain accessibility for all disabled staff.

3. Recruitment & Application Support

• Disability Confident Scheme: As part of the broader Civil Service recruitment commitments, DfT participates in the Disability Confident scheme, offering guaranteed assessment/interview routes for disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria for a role.
• Accessible Job Listings: DfT tailors job advert language, imagery, and design to ensure job postings remain fully accessible to all audiences and actively encourage disabled applicants.
• Going Forward into Employment (GFIE): DfT participates in GFIE schemes to create non-standard recruitment routes into Civil Service roles for individuals facing employment barriers.

4. Flexible Working & Anti-Discrimination Policies

• Flexible Working Patterns: Flexible hours, job-sharing, and part-time working options are embedded as standard practice to help staff manage personal circumstances, long-term health conditions, or disability-related requirements alongside their roles.
• Equal Opportunities & Non-Discrimination: DfT enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding discrimination, harassment, bullying, or victimisation on the grounds of disability, gender identity, age, race, or sexual orientation.