Is there an organisation which has made a difference to your life, either as an employee or as a consumer? If so, Business Disability Forum would like to hear from you.

The 2019 Disability Smart Awards, supported by Barclays, showcase and celebrate organisations which have demonstrated a clear and ongoing commitment to deliver for all employees and members of the public.

This year, there are 11 awards categories. These include the popular Disabled Peoples’ Choice Award, which aims to celebrate organisations which have gone the extra mile to meet the needs of their employees or their customers.

Last year the award was won by Liverpool Football Club and its team of Accessibility Stewards. Fans who nominated the Club described the “amazing” work of stewards, who went above and beyond to ensure that all fans have the same football experience. Stewards even travelled abroad to accompany disabled fans to away games.

Stewards also ensured that fans had all the accessible features they needed, including sensory rooms for fans with autism, accessible changing rooms, and adapted bedrooms.

The Accessibility Stewards received their award at a ceremony in London, where they were joined by the fan who had led the nomination.

Diane Lightfoot, CEO, Business Disability Forum, said:

“Through the Disability Smart Awards, we want to celebrate success, whilst raising the bar on inclusive business in order to challenge other organisations to become more accessible.

“Please help lead the way on change by nominating an organisation which has made a difference to your life.”

To nominate an organisation for the Disabled Peoples’ Choice Award 2019, and to find out about the other award categories, go to: https://businessdisabilityforum.org.uk/our-services/disability-smart-awards/ or email dsawards@businessdisabilityforum.org.uk

Nominations must be received by 20th September 2019.

Entries will be judged by a panel of disability experts and business leaders.

Winners will be announced at an award ceremony taking place on 23 October 2019 at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s Locarno Suite. Nominees who have submitted winning entries will be invited to attend the ceremony.

Business Disability Forum is a leading not-for-profit membership organisation which exists to transform the life chances of disabled people through employment, economic growth, and in society more widely.

Business Disability Forum is a leading non-profit membership organisation which exists to transform the life chances of disabled people. With over 25 years’ experience, it brings together business leaders, disabled people, and Government to understand what needs to change to improve the life opportunities and experiences of disabled people in employment, economic growth, and society more widely. Business Disability Forum provides practical, evidence-based, strategic solutions for businesses to recruit, retain, and provide inclusive products and services to disabled people.

For more information, please visit: http://businessdisabilityforum.org.uk/about-us/