Sadiq Khan could gain powers to boost disabled employment

Ministers are in discussions about granting Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, additional powers to tackle the employment disparity faced by disabled residents. The employment rate for disabled Londoners stands at 55.8%, a figure substantially lower than the 79.3% rate for those without disabilities, according to Department for Work and Pensions figures. This gap has persisted since 2010, and the government now aims to reduce it.

Sir Stephen Timms, the Minister of State for Social Security and Disability, indicated that these talks are part of a broader government strategy to devolve employment support. He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that effective employment support requires local integration of skills training, colleges, job centres, and the NHS. 'What you need for effective employment support is in each area, skills support, colleges; employment support, job centres working together; and you need the NHS as well,' Sir Stephen stated. 'And you can only do that, I think, with a devolved approach.'

Calls for Devolution

Mayor Sadiq Khan has long advocated for greater control over employment and skills programmes in London. He has previously called for a multi-year funding settlement, increased Adult Skills Fund support, and more authority over employment support initiatives. City Hall has recently launched London's first Deaf and Disabled Londoners Action Plan, which outlines strategies to address the employment gap through initiatives like the Inclusive Talent Strategy and Get London Working plan.

Sir Stephen described the devolution of powers as a significant priority for the government. He noted that the government is working closely with City Hall on this matter. He also highlighted the Connect to Work programme, a government initiative launched in 2024 to assist individuals with disabilities or health conditions in finding work. In London, four partners are implementing this programme, with early data described as 'encouraging'.

Addressing Backlogs and Youth Unemployment

The government is also taking steps to address a surge in demand for Access to Work grants, which provide practical or mental health support for employees whose conditions affect their work. This surge has led to significant backlogs and delays. To combat this, the government is recruiting an additional 500 staff, who are expected to be in post by the end of the year. Training will follow, with the aim of eliminating the backlog and returning to full capacity by September next year, according to Sir Stephen.

The issue of young people not in education, employment, or training (NEETs) is also a concern. Up to 125,000 Londoners aged 16 to 24 fall into this category. Robert Posner, deputy CEO of ThinkForward, a charity supporting young people at risk of becoming NEET, stated that consistent, trusted adult support is crucial. This support should include building confidence, developing work-ready skills, creating tailored plans, providing career guidance, meaningful work experience, and accessible routes into jobs and apprenticeships.

The government's approach to local commissioning for programmes like Connect to Work allows local authorities to select the most suitable organisations to deliver services. This local control is intended to ensure programmes are well-suited to specific area circumstances. Sir Stephen expressed confidence that this method will lead to effective support for individuals seeking employment.