Thursday 13th March; 9.30am – 10.45am
Virtual Disability Insights
All employees want and deserve the opportunity to be managed and supported in ways that allow them to work effectively and realize their potential. For some of us, this may occasionally require additional support. However, for individuals with disabilities or health conditions, the type and level of support needed can look quite different from what others might require, and it can be challenging to envision what this entails. We often hear about ‘reasonable adjustments’—but what does “reasonable” mean in practice? What adjustments should employers be considering, how can these be sourced, and what does their implementation look like?
To explore these questions, our panel brings together individuals with personal experiences of disability who will share their unique perspectives on navigating the workplace. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the types of support and adjustments that can make a meaningful difference, as well as an understanding of the approaches different organizations take to support their disabled employees effectively.
Our Disability Insights panel is designed to be interactive and thought-provoking, offering the opportunity to engage in open dialogue with people who have lived experience of disability. This is a safe space to ask questions, participate in discussions, and deepen your understanding of disability and workplace accommodations. Through these conversations, you’ll learn about specific disabilities, see how adjustments are implemented in real-world settings, and gain awareness of other key considerations for fostering an inclusive workplace.
Speakers
Cai Cherry
Cai is an associate in DLA Piper's Public Law and Litigation team, having qualified as a Solicitor and a New York Attorney in 2024. Cai works on a variety of English, US and international mandates, including judicial review and commercial disputes, human rights and equalities, and regulatory advice.
Cai developed Guillain Barre Syndrome, fibromyalgia, and a functional neurological disorder in his first year of university. Since then, they have founded DLA Piper's 'Enabled Represents' pro bono practice for disability, neurodiversity and mental health, published a debut novel, and been recognised in national awards for disability and LGBTQ+ activism.
James Ellery-Gower
James has worked in Cyber Security and Third Party Risk Management in Financial Services throughout his career. James has spent over a decade at EY, joining on their graduate scheme in 2011, before moving across to Citi as an experienced hire in 2022. James led one of EY’s largest charitable partnerships in the UK, who focused on providing equipment, support and life skills to disabled children.
James has extensive media exposure focusing on Disability, with a publication in The Guardian and recordings on the BBC, Channel4 and YouTube. James’s contributions to Disability Advocacy have been recognised by his 2023 MyPlus+ Disability Progress Award.
James has cerebral palsy and is a keen wheelchair basketball player, captaining his local team. Walking with sticks and using a manual wheelchair, James passionately promotes the abilities of disability, always looking to articulate why a disability positively sets you apart in the workplace.
This session is ideal for anyone interested in building a deeper, firsthand understanding of disability and creating a more supportive workplace culture.
MyPlus Employers’ Club members are entitled to 8 complimentary places. Non-members may purchase places at a price of £95 + VAT. Contact lise@myplusconsulting.com to purchase places or to find out more about REmployers’ Club membership.
MyPlus run a variety of these types of events for employers. For details of the different types visit our events page. For details of forthcoming Employers’ Club events taking place visit our events calendar page.
