Capita Public Services, with a workforce of over 12,000 employees, is a leading UK-based outsourcer supporting public sector organisations in delivering complex business processes more efficiently.
The problem
In the UK, disabled individuals face significant challenges in securing and maintaining employment, resulting in underrepresentation in the workforce. This issue is particularly acute in Mansfield, a region with a high proportion of disabled people. The lack of accessible opportunities, suitable workplace adjustments, and supportive onboarding processes exacerbate barriers to employment, leaving many disabled people unable to realise their potential or achieve financial independence.
The solution
Capita Public Services recognised the need for a tailored approach to address these challenges and launched a groundbreaking disability-focused internship programme. Developed in partnership with Vision West Nottinghamshire College, the six-month programme was designed to build employability skills while ensuring accessibility and support for participants.
Key features of the initiative included:
- Neuroinclusive assessments and interviews to provide fair and supportive candidate evaluation.
- Job carving, ensuring that roles were tailored to match interns’ strengths and abilities.
- Personalised workplace adjustments to create an inclusive environment.
- A dedicated mentor and a buddy system to facilitate workplace integration and skills development.
This bespoke approach ensured that disabled people could access meaningful employment opportunities, develop confidence, and thrive within the workplace.
The results
The programme’s impact has been transformative, both for the interns and for Capita as an organisation:
- 100% completion rate: Every participant successfully completed the internship.
- 80% conversion rate: The majority of interns transitioned into permanent roles at Capita.
- Increased workplace inclusivity: The proportion of employees disclosing disabilities within Capita rose from 2% to 15%, reflecting a more supportive and open culture.
- Enhanced candidate experience: Practical assessments and neuroinclusive interviews improved the overall recruitment process, contributing to higher retention rates.
The inclusive recruitment initiative demonstrates how focused, thoughtful efforts can break down barriers and foster meaningful change, creating a more inclusive and equitable workforce. This programme has set a benchmark for other organisations seeking to drive accessibility and representation within their workplaces.
The information contained within this resource was accurate at the time of its publication. This article was created in April 2025.