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Creating an inclusive workplace for people with disabilities

Ross Hovey, Workplace Inclusion Manager, talks about how flexible working, accessible toilets and an inclusive mindset have helped create a better working environment for people with disabilities.

Ross Hovey
Group Accessibility Manager
Published on: 30 April 2025
5 min read

Since joining Lloyds Banking Group in 2001 as part of the graduate programme, I’ve been able to move across the business in a variety of roles.

The graduate programme was a good start to the business from an inclusion point of view. My time on the programme was extended so I was able to experience all of the various placements with the necessary adjustments. I got to experience what it was like to work in a branch, working face-to-face with customers, while also getting time in head office environments. 

Currently, I’m the Group’s Workplace Inclusion Lead, where I use colleague voices, external insights and knowledge of inclusive design to help make the Group a more inclusive business driving even better outcomes and experiences for customers and colleagues. 

While also progressing at Lloyds Banking Group, I’ve seen my external profile increase, to be seen as a subject matter expert where I consult and volunteer for other organisations, like Gatwick Airport where I sit on the Independent Accessibility Panel. 

Creating an inclusive environment with flexible working

Throughout my career, the Group has supported me and other colleagues with disabilities to work in a flexible way as part of a Workplace Adjustment.   

For me, working from home is key, as it sets me up for success and allows me to thrive at Lloyds Banking Group.  

As someone with a disability, it takes me longer to get somewhere , because I can't always go direct to where I want to go. Sometimes I’ve got to go to the nearest accessible train station or  find accessible parking.  Working from home means I can maximise my time and productivity.  

It also enables me to support my health, including vital physio sessions. Every little task consumes my limited energy, so less travel allows me to focus those energies on important work. My home is setup to meet all my disability needs, so I can be my best. If I am not feeling on top form, I can work comfortably from my orthopaedic bed. Fitting in numerous hospital and medical appointments around the vicinity of my home also means less time out of work. 

Although I work from home most of the time, face to face collaboration is still crucial for my role. I’m responsible for evaluating the accessibility of our buildings, so often I need to travel to different locations to monitor progress and assess how inclusive the space is. 

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Working at Lloyds Banking Group: Ross

Video | 1 min 

Hear from Ross Hovey, Group Accessibility Manager, who was named on the Disability Role Models list by our internal colleague network, Access.

Watch video

Changing Places toilet

Standard accessible toilets meet the needs for some people – but there are those of us where specialist washrooms with extra space are crucial.

Changing Places facilities are designed to be completely accessible and provide enough space and equipment for people who are not able to use the toilet independently. They provide equipment such as hoists, curtains and space for carers.

In June 2022, Lloyds Banking Group became the first UK bank to open a registered Changing Places facility at our Old Broad Street Building. As well as being available for colleagues, the facility is also opened to the public.

The introduction of this facility has made a huge difference for me. Before it was installed, I had to plan my entire day around toilet availability. I had to think about what I ate and where there was a Changing Places facility on route to work in case I needed an extended toilet visit. 

I am eloquently trying to say that anything more than going for a wee was impossible and caused huge stress and anxiety. 

I’m pleased to see that we have plans to add a further two facilities to sites which are currently being redesigned. Going forward, the inclusion of a Changing Places facility will be considered for all Group buildings. 

Breaking down barriers in the workplace 

Of course, there are still many barriers which organisations of all sizes need to consider. 

On the topic of toilets, it’d be great to see other organisations implement Changing Places facilities. In my role, I often collaborate with other organisations so we can support each other. It’d be fantastic to know that if I visit their offices, there is an inclusive facility available. 

We’ve made significant progress when it comes to making our spaces more inclusive. Our Wellington Place office in Leeds exemplifies inclusive design through its consultative approach. The innovative spatial strategy, featuring specific acoustic treatments, caters to diverse working styles and needs. Additionally, it offers a range of inclusive wellbeing solutions, from Changing Places to Decompression Pods, ensuring a welcoming and supportive environment for all colleagues.
 

Advice for people with disabilities who are looking for a job 

If you’ve a disability and are looking for a job, I'd start by looking for organisations that talk positively about disability and inclusion, or organisations that are part of the UK government Disability Confident Scheme.  

When applying for a job, a lot of people feel uncomfortable about sharing their needs but they’re almost setting themselves up for failure. If you don’t tell someone that you need an adjustment for the interview, you won’t have the opportunity to perform at your best. My advice is to get comfortable talking specifically about your disability and what you need from them in order to give you the best opportunity to shine.  

Originally published August 2022

 

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About the author Ross Hovey

During a career of 20 years, Ross has delivered in a variety of roles within Lloyds Banking Group and is now an established thought-leader and subject matter expert on Disability in the Workplace with extensive expertise in implementing and managing a workplace adjustment process.

His work in the field of Disability has gained significant respect and alongside his career he leads Changing Places International mission to set the global standard for fully accessible toilets and is a member of Gatwick Airport's Independent Accessibility Panel. He co-chairs an established employee network, WharfAbility, and more recently has started working with Permobil on developing their wheelchairs to be even better.

Ross uses his Banking HR CiPD and lived experience of disability to deliver on his passion for making not only Lloyds Banking Group but the world a more inclusive place for disabled people. 

Follow Ross on LinkedIn

 

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