EMPLOYERS gathered in Greenock for a conference encouraging employers to take on people with disabilities.

Inverclyde MP Ronnie Cowan delivered the keynote speech at the Disability Confident event in the town hall. Stuart McMillan MSP and Provost Robert Moran were also in attendance.

Disability Confident is a scheme set up by the UK Government aimed at helping employers make the most of the opportunities provided by taking on disabled people.

At the ‘Employ with Confidence’ event in Greenock, local businesses were given information and advice on a range of topics to enable them to support staff with health issues or disabilities. Mr Moran also signed up to the scheme on behalf of Inverclyde Council.

He said: “This event is part of a nationwide drive to promote Disability Confident.

“It replaces the current double tick scheme and aims to highlight the benefits to business and employers of recruiting disabled people.

“It is very positive to see so many employers and organisations here.

“This event and the overall campaign will work when the entire community gets involved, so seeing so many different organisations here is hugely welcome. 

“The council is the single largest employer in Inverclyde and is a keen supporter of the principles behind this campaign. I am delighted to announce to you that Inverclyde Council is signing up, as an employer, to Disability Confident.

“I hope this sends a signal to other employers, either in the public or private sector, that a good employer does not look on the myths about disability but focuses on the benefits.

“I hope also that this sends a signal to current and future employees that Inverclyde Council will work to break down barriers.”