Sodexo achieves re-accreditation as a Disability Confident Leader
Sodexo has retained its status as a Disability Confident Leader under the UK Government's Disability Confident scheme, reaffirming its commitment to disability inclusion.
Sodexo first achieved Disability Confident Leader status in 2018 and successfully renewed it for a further three years in 2021.
The Disability Confident scheme helps employers recruit and retain talent, challenge attitudes, and increase understanding of disability. It enables employers to draw from the widest possible pool of talent, secure high-quality staff and improve employee morale and commitment by demonstrating fair treatment. The scheme also identifies those employers who are committed to inclusion and diversity in the workplace.
Sodexo is deeply committed to shaping a future in which individuals with disabilities, both visible and hidden, can thrive, act, and belong. Disability inclusion is a key pillar of the company’s DEI strategy, and globally, Sodexo aims to ensure that by 2025, all its employees will have access to programmes that support people with disabilities.
The company’s Ability employee network in the UK and Ireland plays a vital role in fostering disability and neurodiversity inclusion by encouraging awareness and action across Sodexo's workforce, clients, and consumers. Employees with disabilities, carers, and allies are all welcomed to participate in the network, which is dedicated to raising awareness about disability, challenge misconceptions and promoting inclusive practices within the workplace.
In April 2024, the network introduced its Neurodiversity Café, a space designed by neurodivergent colleagues to support discussions on neurodiversity. The Café hosts quarterly expert events and monthly casual drop-ins to inspire conversations around neurodiversity and encourage a more inclusive culture.
Other initiatives Sodexo have implemented include:
- Continuing to partner with external organisations, such as Ways into Work, Foxes Academy and Project Search, and clients to support young adults with disabilities to develop employability skills and secure employment.
- Sponsorship of Business Disability Forum’s Procurement Kit and the Disability Confidence Award at the Springboard Awards.