Unlocking £230bn Potential: How Removing Barriers for Disabled Entrepreneurs Could Boost the UK Economy

A new government-backed review has revealed that the barriers faced by disabled entrepreneurs in the UK are costing the economy up to £230 billion annually. The Lilac Review, initiated in 2024, has identified significant obstacles such as inaccessible support services, challenges in securing financing, and the need to repeatedly prove disability status. These barriers limit the growth of businesses led by disabled individuals, which, despite making up a quarter of the UK’s small businesses, contribute only a small fraction, 8.6% of the total turnover. The report highlights the untapped economic potential that could be unlocked if these barriers were addressed.

The interim findings of the review suggest a series of practical recommendations aimed at improving opportunities for disabled entrepreneurs. These include simplifying access to support services, adopting a trust-based approach to disability assessments, and reforming procurement processes to be more inclusive. The review estimates that by addressing these systemic issues, disabled entrepreneurs could contribute an additional £230 billion to the UK economy. This represents a significant opportunity for both economic growth and fostering greater inclusion in the business world.

Despite the challenges, many disabled entrepreneurs have shown remarkable resilience and innovation. Amelia Peckham, the founder of Cool Crutches, has found success by offering stylish, functional products and even showcased her designs at Paris Fashion Week. Entrepreneurs like Peckham emphasize the importance of tailored support, such as mentoring and networking, to help disabled business owners overcome isolation and grow their ventures. The Lilac Review underscores that providing such services is crucial to unlocking the full potential of disabled-led businesses, which could greatly benefit the UK economy if the necessary support systems were put in place.