DMWS Achieves Disability Confident Leader - DMWS

DMWS are proud to have been awarded Disability Confident Leader status by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). This is the highest level within the UK Government’s Disability Confident scheme. We have worked hard to creating an inclusive, supportive, and fair workplace. This status highlights our efforts and dedication to achieving this goal. 

Why This Matters 

Receiving Disability Confident Leader status is not just a title, but a promise to: 

– Remove barriers to employment and progression 

– Make needed adjustments for staff 

– Promote open and supportive discussion about health and wellbeing 

– Challenge stigma around disability and long-term health conditions 

– Lead by example within our sector 

DMWS know that our differences makes us stronger. We have a strong, diverse workforce and are proud our staff feel comfortable sharing their different experiences. 39% of our staff shared they have, or have had, a disability or health condition. We understand the importance of earning and keeping our staff’s trust in our ability to support their needs. We make sure our practises are fair, honest, and compliant with UK employment legislation.  

What It Means 

As a Disability Confident Leader, DMWS commits to: 

– Make sure recruitment is inclusive and easy to access 

– Support managers in meeting their staff’s needs 

– Offer training and awareness to build inclusive leadership 

– Review workplace practises to remove unneeded barriers 

– Promote wellbeing and mental health support 

What’s Next? 

As part of our ongoing journey and AFCFT transformational programme, DMWS are looking outward. We will invite a group of Armed Forces charities to undertake Disability Confidence verification. We will support them to strengthen inclusive practises within their own workplaces. This step reflects our ambition to: 

– Share learning and best practice 

– Raise standards across the Armed Forces charity sector 

– Build a stronger, more inclusive collective workforce 

– Support long-lasting organisational change 

We hope to create a ripple effect, helping the wider Armed Forces charities community promote and sustain inclusion. 

Also, while we celebrate this award, we know we have further steps to take. We are very happy for this recognition, but know the responsibility that comes with it. DMWS will continue to: 

– Keep track of workforce data responsibly and honestly 

– Consult with staff and representatives 

– Review policies inline with changing legislation 

To find out more, contact DMWS EDI Lead Matt Jackson at mjackson@dmws.org.uk 

Published: 13th April, 2026