Disabled jobseeker 'openly discriminated against'

Victoria Clark went for an interview at Toby Carvery in Billingham

A job coach supporting a disabled woman at an interview with a restaurant chain said she was left "aghast" when the recruiter "openly discriminated against" her client.

Heidi Smith, managing director of Learning Abilities CIC, accompanied Victoria Clark to Toby Carvery in Billingham, Teesside, last week.

Ms Smith claimed when the interviewer realised she had disabilities, she was told the job "isn't going to work" as the branch was busy and suggested she looked for a "more leisurely" role.

A Toby Carvery spokesman said they had received a complaint and were taking the matter "very seriously", but added they could not comment on the specific case.

Ms Clark was called over for the interview, and Ms Smith alleged she explained she was there as a job coach to support her client, due to her disabilities.

Ms Smith said: "Straightaway, this lady didn't enquire what the disabilities were, had no kind of awareness, no kind of patience and she just said 'this isn't going to work if she's got disabilities'.

"I think I was just very aghast, because I couldn't really believe what I was hearing and I've also got to remember that I've got a vulnerable client with me."

'Extremely busy'

Ms Smith said as part of the application process her company, which works with people with autism and learning difficulties, "job matches" people to roles so they can ensure they are suitable for them.

They also attend the interview to ensure they understand what is being asked and help reword questions if needed.

• BBC Sounds: Disabled jobseeker 'openly discriminated against'

Ms Smith added Ms Clark would have disclosed her disability when applying, however she claimed they were told she would not have been invited for an interview had the recruiter been aware.

Ms Smith said they were told the restaurant was "extremely busy" and even the "most capable" of employees struggled in that environment.

Ms Smith said she was left "aghast" by the recruiter's reaction

She claimed the recruiter did not address Ms Clark directly and "ignored her".

Ms Smith said: "We have had interviews and we've had work placements where you know that somebody's been discriminated against, but it's never as open as that and I was just more concerned about [my client] and how she was taking it."

'She's determined'

A spokesman for Toby Carvery said the chain was proud of its record as an inclusive employer.

They said: "We know from our employee survey data that we support many employees with learning disabilities to have successful careers, clearly demonstrating our commitment to providing equal employment opportunities for all."

Heidi Smith said she was left "aghast" by the recruiter's behaviour

Ms Smith said Ms Clark handled the situation "with grace" and was one of her "most determined clients."

"All she really wants is a job. She wants to work, she's put out hundreds of applications - I personally have taken her to about 12 interviews," she said.

"And every time it's come back with a 'no', for one reason or another."

A spokesman for the chain confirmed a complaint had been received but added it would not comment on the specific case.

"We will fully investigate the concerns raised but it is not helpful to do so in public and we will not be commenting further until we have explored the matter fully," he added.