Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, with reference to the policy paper entitled Disability Confident Reform Delivery Plan for December 2025 to December 2026, updated on 13 February 2026, whether he has considered the potential merits of introducing independent audits of accredited Disability Confident employers to ensure they continue to meet the qualifying criteria.

The Department has considered the case for greater independent assurance as part of our reforms to the Disability Confident scheme.

We recognise concerns about over-reliance on self-assessment and inconsistent external validation. Our reforms are designed to strengthen criteria, assurance and transparency, while ensuring that expectations remain proportionate for employers of different sizes.

Rather than a blanket system of independent audits across all Disability Confident employers assurance levels will reflect the different stages of the scheme. At Level 1, membership will become a clearer entry point. Membership at this level will be limited to two years with employers expected to progress rather than renew indefinitely. Employers will be supported with guidance and practical resources.

At Level 2, the focus will be on strengthened criteria and require clearer evidence of employer action and progress. At Level 3, where employers demonstrate the highest level of Disability Confident membership, there will be an improved external verification process. Our reform work is developing a more consistent verification framework, supported by clearer criteria, assessor guidance and quality assurance.

Employee lived experience is also being developed as a core part of the reformed verification model, providing more meaningful evidence of the difference employers are making.