The Recruitment Industry Disability Initiative (RIDI) Awards – which celebrate progress and recognise the success of organisations that are making headway in increasing the inclusion of disabled professionals – are inviting entries from employers and recruiters.

Last year the Awards attracted over 50 applications across award categories including Innovation in Assessment, Inclusive Partnerships, Employers Choice and Overall Candidate Experience. Previous winners included Sky Blue Carillon, CEB/SHL, E:ON, the BBC, Sainsbury’s and Eversheds in partnership with Guidant Group, as well as many smaller employers and recruiters.

Submissions close on the 31 July 2015. The awards are free to enter.

Commenting on the awards, Kate Headley, Director of Consulting at the Clear Company and spokesperson for the Recruitment Industry Disability Initiative said:

“Around 11 million people in the UK are living with a limiting long term illness, impairment or disability and I’d like to urge organisations which are taking a pro-active approach to aiding the inclusion of these individuals to get in touch and share their journeys and successes. While traditional recruitment processes can be a barrier to disabled candidates, small changes in approach can make a huge impact on accessibility and inclusion. I hope that this year’s winners will inspire other organisations to focus on their own strategies to boost diversity”.

An event showcasing the 2015 winners is also planned for the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on 03 December.