Banks step up support for disabled entrepreneurs, new report shows

UK Finance has published a new report highlighting the progress made by banks to improve access to finance for disabled entrepreneurs, following the introduction of the Disability Finance Code for Entrepreneurship (DFCE) in December 2024.

The DFCE, developed in partnership with leading financial institutions, sets out a clear framework of commitments designed to remove barriers and promote inclusion for disabled individuals pursuing business ownership. The code requires signatory banks to embed accessibility into financial products, offer tailored support services, showcase success stories, and increase representation within their own workforces.

Today’s report reveals the practical steps taken by major UK banks – including Barclays, HSBC UK, Lloyds Banking Group, and NatWest – to bring these principles to life. Key achievements include:

• Dedicated disability inclusion teams: Banks have launched internal teams focused on improving support for disabled customers and entrepreneurs, monitoring engagement, and delivering personalised assistance.
• Disabled entrepreneurs’ hub: Several banks have established dedicated platforms offering tailored guidance on accessing funding, navigating business challenges, and joining mentoring networks.
• Inclusive workplaces: Financial institutions are also investing in building inclusive environments, supporting the professional growth of disabled colleagues and creating accessible pathways to leadership roles.
• Education and visibility: Banks are increasingly sharing success stories of disabled founders to inspire others and challenge outdated perceptions about entrepreneurship and disability.

“It shines a much-needed spotlight on the critical work being done by financial services firms to unlock the full potential of a vital segment of our entrepreneurial community.

“This report demonstrates the progress being made across the commercial finance sector in creating more opportunities for disabled entrepreneurs to access finance. Aligned with the government’s plan for growth, we are committed to continuing to champion these efforts, working collaboratively to build a future where every entrepreneur, regardless of disability, can realise their ambitions and contribute fully to driving innovation and growing the UK’s economy.”

“Through our Plan for Change, this government is committed to delivering further and faster economic growth. A key part of this is ensuring that those with the ambition to start and scale up a business have the right support to do so, no matter their background or circumstances.

“Today’s report showcases some of the great work of DFCE signatories in supporting disabled entrepreneurs. It also recognises that while progress has been made, there’s more to be done by government, the finance sector and society, to ensure entrepreneurs from all backgrounds have the means to get into business.”

As the UK economy looks to future-proof its growth, the DFCE represents a significant step in creating a level playing field for disabled entrepreneurs – ensuring that ambition and innovation are never limited by accessibility.