The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a recent statement addressing concerns regarding the impact of competency-based interview formats on disabled job applicants.
The matter was raised by Shivani Raja, MP for Leicester East, who questioned whether such interview styles might disadvantage disabled candidates. In response, Andrew Western, Minister of State at the DWP, acknowledged that certain disabled individuals could benefit from reasonable adjustments during recruitment.
Minister Western emphasised that the DWP promotes fair and accessible recruitment practices, including providing interview questions in advance, using clear language, and applying flexibility in assessment methods where appropriate. Furthermore, the department’s Learning Disabilities Project is collaborating with employers and specialist organisations to identify recruitment barriers and develop guidance that encourages inclusive employment opportunities for those with learning disabilities.
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While the minister did not explicitly confirm if competency-based interviews disadvantage disabled people, these initiatives demonstrate the department’s commitment to improving accessibility.
Earlier in April, the DWP announced several enhancements aimed at supporting autistic people and individuals with learning disabilities. Over 4,000 healthcare professionals within the department completed part of the Oliver McGowan training programme, which was introduced following a campaign by the late Oliver McGowan’s family. Oliver McGowan, a young man with autism and a learning disability, tragically passed away in 2016 after being administered antipsychotic medication against his and his family’s wishes.
This training addresses the issue of “diagnostic overshadowing,” where symptoms are mistakenly attributed to a person’s disability rather than being thoroughly investigated, ensuring individuals receive appropriate support at the right time. It also provides staff with practical tools to implement effective reasonable adjustments for people with learning disabilities and autism as they interact with the benefits system.
These measures form part of the DWP’s ongoing efforts to foster an employment environment that is more accommodating and supportive of disabled individuals, ensuring equitable access to job opportunities and government support services.