Business Disability Forum
The University of Exeter is a member of the Business Disability Forum (BDF) which provides specialist information, guidance and access to comprehensive resources.
BDF is a not for profit organisation experienced at providing advice to help organisations implement best practice and embed disability equality.
Our membership includes access to services, training, and networking opportunities. More information can be found on their website. https://businessdisabilityforum.org.uk/. You can access the BDF Knowledge Hub by registering on the BDF Signup webpage using your University of Exeter email address.
You can also sign up to receive BDF’s newsletter for the latest updates and news in the world of disability and business.
https://businessdisabilityforum.org.uk/our-services/advice-service/
We have access to the BDF’s confidential Advice Service, a team of expert advisors providing advice and practical problem-solving help. The advice service also offers guidance on strategy, policy and how to approach future challenges.
Advice service can address issues ranging from case management, reviewing language/accessibility of communications, advice on adjustments and how to decide what is reasonable, the application of the Equality Act, to researching statistics and best practice.
The service is available to managers and departments including:
- Line managers
- Human Resources
- EDI
- OH
- Estates
- IT
- Health and Safety
- Communications
You can contact the BDF Advice Service by calling +44 20 7403 3020, emailing them at advice@businessdisabilityforum.org.uk or through the SignVideo BSL Live Service.
Confidential phone and email-based helpline support to employees to support with any disability-related questions they have or cases they would like to discuss.
Further information about Business Disability Forum and the Advice service can be found on the Wellbeing webpages.
All members of the University have access to the BDF’s knowledge hub which includes practical information
Toolkits are available with in-depth information, guidance, research, blogs and podcasts on a range of topics including:
- Mental Health
- Neurodiversity
- Inclusive Communications
- Covid-19
- Getting Started
- Redundancy and Redeployment
The Business Disability Forum offers a range of training and networking events focused on disability at work and in Higher Education.
These are free for University of Exeter Staff to attend and can be found at https://businessdisabilityforum.org.uk/networking-and-events/