WORKPLACES are still failing too many disabled workers, with nearly half reporting bullying or harassment in the past year and 39 per cent saying they have experienced mistreatment throughout their careers.

Research by the TUC this week has highlighted disability-related abuses including intrusive questioning and “banter,” verbal abuse, exclusion — and even threats.

Among disabled workers bullied or harassed in the past five years, 42 per cent reported a decline in mental well-being, 38 per cent experienced reduced confidence at work, and 31 per cent said their performance suffered.

One in five disabled workers have never disclosed their disability to their employer. 

Of those, 34 per cent feared being seen as incapable, 26 per cent feared losing their job and 25 per cent anticipated unfair treatment.

Fewer than 42 per cent of workers reported incidents and of those, just 24 per cent felt their complaint was handled fairly. 

Alarmingly, 23 per cent said their grievance was ignored and 16 per cent felt disbelieved.

As a result of mistreatment, 16 per cent have left their jobs, while 9 per cent have moved to different roles.

The report stated: “Overall, these findings paint a sobering picture of exclusion and inequality, but they also point the way forward.

“Action is urgently needed to ensure the workplace is a safe, equitable, and accessible space for all.

“Clear guidance on adjustment requests, accurate recording of disability-related leave, mandatory transparency through disability employment and pay gap reporting and legally enforceable commitments to the social model of disability will be critical steps.

“Only then can we dismantle the barriers that continue to hold back disabled workers.”

While 39 per cent of those bullied were union members, only a quarter sought help. 

Among unionised disabled workers, 32 per cent received meaningful support, ranging from employer representation to securing reasonable adjustments.

The findings reveal wider structural problems, with 49 per cent noting a lack of disabled role models in management, 29 per cent felt more vulnerable to bullying and 31 per cent faced career barriers due to their disability.

Communication remains a significant challenge, with 34 per cent feeling uncomfortable discussing health issues with managers and 29 per cent with colleagues.

The TUC has issued recommendations to unions, employers and the government warning that, without urgent action, many disabled workers will continue to feel unsafe, unrepresented and undervalued in their workplaces.