Report recommends trust-based approach for supporting disabled entrepreneurs

A groundbreaking interim report from The Lilac Review has unveiled a series of recommendations aimed at supporting disabled entrepreneurs and potentially unlocking a staggering £230 billion for the UK economy. The report, co-chaired by small business minister Kevin Hollinrake, minister for disabled people, health and work Mims Davies, and Victoria Jenkins, founder of an adaptive fashion brand, calls for a “radical simplification” of the process for disabled businesspeople to access government support.

The report emphasizes the need for a trust-based approach in disability assessments, rather than subjecting entrepreneurs to a constant cycle of proof. It highlights the significant disparity between the number of disabled entrepreneurs, who make up 25% of small businesses, and their contribution to total small business turnover, which stands at only 8.6%.

By enhancing opportunities for disabled founders, the report estimates that an additional £230 billion could be injected into the UK economy. It urges the government to streamline processes and requirements for accessing support programs, noting that disabled entrepreneurs often face the burden of repeatedly proving their disability status.

Furthermore, the report suggests that removing the burden of proof could alleviate stress on disabled entrepreneurs and reduce the indignity of the process. It also points out the unnecessary cost and workload associated with yearly benefits assessments for individuals with lifelong conditions, proposing a more efficient system for marking such conditions on entrepreneurs’ files.

The final report from The Lilac Review is expected to be released by the end of 2025, with hopes of revolutionizing the landscape for disabled entrepreneurs and fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for their businesses.