The Valuable 500 has launched the Valuable Directory, convening business disability intelligence and experts from across the globe.
The Valuable 500 is the largest network of global CEOs committed to disability inclusion and is led by Caroline Casey (pictured).
The Directory is made up of 77 consultants, suppliers and solutions providers, all of which have demonstrated that they have extensive experience in their fields and have been recommended by thought leaders in the disability space.
It also says 52% of the consultants, suppliers, solution partners listed are female-founded or led.
“This year’s International Women’s Day theme sends an important message and frankly, I can’t believe that we are in 2022 and we are still fighting for it,” said Casey.
“If we are ever going to achieve true equality across every societal, cultural and business area, then we need to break all of the biases which have become standard practice.
“For me, breaking the bias extends beyond a singular gender barrier to the multi-faceted reality which is often overlooked – such as disability. We cannot have a hierarchy of inclusion or a siloed approach.
“Inclusion has to be for all or not at all. Inclusion cannot be pick ‘n’ mix. As we celebrate the Winter Paralympics, we are proud to be a member of the WeThe15 campaign – and the launch of our Valuable Directory is hopefully a small part of the solution. I’m delighted that over half of the business featured are led by women.”
Hosted within the Valuable 500’s Digital Hub, the Directory connects members with disability experts around the world to assist them to progress commitments into action.
Inclusive design specialists Studio Exception have been hired by several Valuable 500 members including Sky, Spotify and Jaguar Land Rover to take on inclusive innovation on their customer products – making them more inclusive for those with disabilities and better for all customers.
They also conduct internal audits, interviewing employees, customers and disability advocates on how they connect with and react to the brand and their offerings.
Out of 140 initial applicants, 77 were chosen to be featured within the first iteration of the Directory and further members will be added on an annual basis with new applicants undergoing the same vetting process.
The Directory includes expertise within the realms of inclusive marketing, organisational culture, accessible physical environments, digital accessibility, inclusive recruitment, mental health & safety training and consumer research.
“It is truly exciting to have closely collaborated with our colleagues in the disability community to create this unique community of disability inclusion experts,” said Stephane Leblois, director of partnerships at the Valuable 500.
“By creating this global directory, we will be able to further support the Valuable 500 companies in advancing their disability inclusion and accessibility work.
“This Directory is a brilliant tool that will continue to evolve to meet their changing needs and reflect the complexity of designing and implementing successful disability inclusion strategies.”