BUSINESS leaders from across the Tees Valley met in Stockton on Friday to highlight the part played by disabled people in the workforce.

Fourteen organisations were recognised for their commitment to employing disabled people when they received the Positive about Disabled People two ticks award.

The Disability Symbol is given to employers who pledge to meet five commitments to the recruitment, employment, retention and career development of people with disabilities.

The awards were presented by Steve Davidson, JobCentre Plus district manager for Tees Valley.

He said: "The business case for employing disabled people is very strong. Employers tell us consistently that their only consideration when filling vacancies is to appoint the best person for the job, and disabled employees can often be the best people.

"Surveys have shown that disabled employees score highly for loyalty, level of commitment, low absenteeism and the additional problem-solving skills they have developed from managing their everyday life."

The companies presented with awards were:

C J Garland, Hartlepool; Cleveden Care Ltd; Coffee Bamber, Darlington; Cummins Business Services, Stockton; Darlington Indoor Bowls Club; Hawthorn Lodge Nursing and Residential Care Home, Hartburn, Stockton; Hollies Residential Home, Norton, Stockton; Middlesbrough Shopmobility; Redcar and Cleveland Real Opportunities Project; Stockton Shopmobility; Tewnorth Limited, Hurworth Place, Darlington; T L Care, Middlesbrough; Tristar Homes, Stockton and Windsor Court Residential Home, Stockton.