IN the week a Government minister was forced to apologise for the suggestion that disabled people are not worth a full wage, the inspirational words of Simon Weston are a very welcome antidote.

Falklands veteran Mr Weston, who was severely burned during that conflict, was in Bradford to encourage businesses to recruit more disabled people.

It is clear that attitudes have changed, and he praised companies including Morrisons for the work they have done.

But as the comments by Lord Freud have shown, society’s attitude to those with disabilities still has a long way to go.

The Welfare Reform Minister has since apologised for his comments, made at a fringe meeting during the Conservative Party Conference a week ago, but they unfortunately mirror the views of too many others.

Fortunately inspirational sporting figures like Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson and Ellie Simmonds have helped to bring about a sea change in people’s perceptions.

Particular difficulties remain, though, particularly for young people with disabilities seeking work.

For all those whose attitudes have changed, too many others still remain blinkered, and refuse to open their minds to giving these young people an opportunity.

The work done by Morrisons and many other companies, including firms like Keighley-based Puddle Digital, who were highlighted at the event yesterday, can be held up as an excellent example of what can be done.