Ongoing efforts to create an inclusive working environment for Housing 21 employees have been recognised with a national accreditation. 

Housing 21 has been presented with a Level 2 ‘Employer’ status through the national Disability Confident Scheme – a standard only achieved by one in five employers signed up to the scheme. 

Disability Confident is a government initiative creating a movement of change, encouraging employers to think differently about disability and take action to improve how they recruit, retain, and develop disabled people. The scheme encourages employers to recruit and retain disabled individuals or those with long-term health conditions. 

(Tahir Idris, Respect and Inclusion Partner at Housing 21)

Tahir Idris, Respect and Inclusion Partner at Housing 21 said: “I’m delighted that we have achieved this status. I know our in-house Disability Action Group will join me in feeling a sense of achievement because we have focused on some longstanding barriers with determination and focus.  

“The outcomes should reap benefits not just for our existing colleagues but also for those who are thinking about joining us. 

“There are over 19,000 employers currently signed up to the Disability Confident Scheme, and only 22 percent of these are Level 2 accredited. So, this is an achievement to be proud of. We are resolutely disability friendly, and inclusion is our business as usual.” 

While Level 1 demonstrates commitment, Level 2 is a recognition of action taken, confirming that Housing 21 has been assessed and proven to meet two critical criteria: getting the right people for the business, and keeping and developing people.  

In 2023, Housing 21 established a Disability Action Group in response to feedback from employees with disabilities. The group has worked diligently to address areas for improvement, focusing on achieving equal employee satisfaction regardless of long-term health conditions. 

The newly attained Level 2 accreditation will be renewed in February 2028, reinforcing the organisation’s ongoing commitment to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees, including those with disabilities, can thrive.