How Novuna is building a Disability Confident workplace
What does it really mean to build a workplace where everyone can thrive?
For us at Novuna, it starts with removing barriers — in recruitment, in the workplace and in the systems people rely on every day.
Since becoming a Disability Confident Committed employer in 2023, we’ve been focused on turning that ambition into practical action. In early 2026, we reached the next milestone, achieving Disability Confident Employer status ahead of schedule.
But the real progress isn’t about a badge. It’s about the everyday changes that help people feel supported, valued and able to do their best work.
Because when people have the opportunity to bring their full selves to work, they have the time to shine, the confidence to make a difference, and the space to keep learning and growing.
Creating a more inclusive recruitment experience
One of the biggest areas of progress has been recruitment.
From the moment candidates first interact with Novuna, we want it to be clear that we welcome disabled applicants and will support adjustments throughout the hiring process.
We’ve also strengthened the way we collect and review disability data to better understand where barriers might exist and how we can improve.
That means:
- Job adverts that focus on essential skills and potential, rather than unnecessary requirements
- Flexible interview formats, timings and assessment methods
- Clear guidance for hiring managers on inclusive shortlisting and interviewing
- Recruitment audits that now include a dedicated Equity, Diversity and Inclusion review
These changes are already having a measurable impact.
Over the past year, 48% of candidates who disclosed a disability were offered an interview, reflecting a stronger focus on potential and essential criteria.
As Andrew Polloway, Inclusion and Wellbeing Manager at Novuna, explains:
“Inclusive recruitment isn’t just the right thing to do – it leads to better outcomes. When people can show up as themselves, you see capability more clearly.”
And the benefits go beyond accessibility. Clearer communication, better preparation and more thoughtful assessments help create a better experience for every candidate.
Designing accessibility into everyday working life
Creating an inclusive workplace doesn’t stop once someone joins the organisation.
That’s why we’re moving away from adjustments being treated as one-off responses and instead focusing on building accessibility into everyday working life.
Across our offices, accessibility reviews have led to practical improvements, including:
- Automated doors and improved building access
- Ramps and enhanced visual contrast
- Induction loops in key meeting spaces
- Quiet areas where colleagues can rest, decompress or manage sensory needs
We’re also continuing to strengthen digital accessibility, to ensure colleagues can personalise how they work from day one through built-in accessibility tools and assistive technology.
As Andrew Herbert, Chief Technology Officer at Novuna, explains:
“We’re building systems that make support visible, expected and easier to access so people can focus on doing their best work.”
Learning from lived experience
A key part of our journey has been listening and learning.
Through our partnership with Disability Action Yorkshire, colleagues at Novuna have worked alongside people who often face barriers in traditional recruitment processes.
Work experience placements and assessment days provide participants with a supportive introduction to working life, designed to build confidence and insight.
For our teams, these experiences provide a valuable perspective and help challenge assumptions about how recruitment and workplaces should work.
As Zoe Kitching, Operational Training Manager and Co-Lead of our Colleague Ability Network, explains:
“Listening to lived experience challenged assumptions and pushed us to design recruitment and work experiences that build confidence, not barriers.”
A milestone on an ongoing journey
Achieving Disability Confident Employer status is an important milestone for Novuna, but it’s not the finish line.
For us, the goal remains simple: continuing to remove barriers, open doors and build a workplace where everyone can thrive.
As Chief Risk Officer, John Shiels explains:
“This recognition reflects the hard work and commitment of colleagues across Novuna who are focused on ensuring the needs of people with disabilities are prioritised both within our organisation and in the wider community. There’s always more to do, but this is a fantastic milestone.”
Interested in joining Novuna?
We believe great workplaces are built by people who bring different perspectives, experiences and ideas.
If you’re looking for a place where you’ll have the opportunity to learn, the support to grow, and the chance to make a difference, explore opportunities with Novuna on our careers site.
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