Welcome to WM Enable – a Wavemaker disability and neurodiversity support network

This week we’re launching WM Enable, a global initiative to promote awareness and understanding of disability and neurodiversity. In support of affected employees, managers and teams, and to ensure the agency can welcome more people with disabilities as employees.

Created for everyone at Wavemaker who is impacted by a disability (visible or non-visible), has neurological impairments or an underlying medical condition, WM Enable launches on 3rd December 2019 to coincide with International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

An event at Wavemaker’s headquarters at London’s Sea Containers House will see speakers from the RNIB, the Premier League, TFL and Bec Development share their stories about living and working with disabilities and impairments. We will also takes part in #PurpleLightUp, which will see Sea Containers turn purple as part of the global movement designed to draw attention to the economic empowerment of disabled people.

Research shows that 49% of disabled people worry about telling their managers of their impairment or condition.

48 % are also unaware of their rights as a disabled employee.

We are trying to change that.SARAH CONWAY, PRECISION LEAD & WM ENABLE FOUNDER, UK

Beyond the launch, Wavemaker will introduce a range of practical changes: at the start of next year Wavemaker will introduce Ability Allies into the business and launch a handbook of policies, procedures and advice for employees and managers. Training will be provided in co-ordination with disability charities and organisations.

WPP has also signed up to the Valuable 500 committing to bring the disability conversation to board level and taking positive action within WPP agenciess

James Edgar, Wavemaker’s Global Chief Talent Officer, said, “We have a commitment to build a culture that nurtures and encourages every one of our employees and potential employees to bring their whole self to work. The realm of disability has a stigma that we are looking to break. We have run several projects, but it is time now that we develop a more cohesive way of approaching this. We are committed to raising our awareness, breaking down biases and myths and providing the support through allies and training that will positively influence our behaviour as an agency. I am excited about the potential of WM Enable to bring this to life for us and our Wavemakers.”