The Adapted Physical Activity Research Unit (APARU) at the University of Worcester has submitted written evidence to the UK Parliament’s Women and Equalities Committee as part of its inquiry into flexible working for disabled people.
Drawing on research in disability, adapted physical activity, and participatory approaches, the submission argues that reducing the disability employment gap requires more than flexible working policies. It highlights the importance of addressing institutional ableism, recognizing the expertise of disabled people, and designing workplaces in partnership with disabled communities.
The evidence examines key issues, including epistemic ableism, barriers to requesting flexible working, the intersection of disability and ethnicity, and lessons from adapted physical activity and disability sport. It also provides practical recommendations to support policymakers in creating more inclusive employment systems.
The contribution reflects APARU’s commitment to ensuring that research informs policy and practice. By bringing evidence from adapted physical activity into national discussions on employment and equality, the unit aims to support workplace environments that are inclusive, person-centred, and responsive to the needs of disabled people.
More information: https://committees.parliament.uk/committee/328/women-and-equalities-committee/publications/written-evidence/