The Disability Equality Index (DEI) is a benchmark series developed to measure corporate disability inclusion practices. Initiated in 2015, the series is designed to provide businesses with a standardised, objective framework for evaluating and improving their disability-related policies and practices.

The DEI assesses participating organisations across several dimensions including leadership, accessibility, workplace culture, recruitment, and community engagement. It uses a self-reported survey method, allowing companies to benchmark their internal practices against peers and international standards. In 2024, the series expanded its geographic scope, reflecting its increasing relevance to multinational organisations.

The purpose of the benchmark is to support companies in tracking their progress towards inclusive employment and to align with evolving legislative and stakeholder expectations. It also provides a consistent basis for comparing performance across markets and industries.

Finance professionals can use this benchmark to identify potential risks and opportunities related to disability inclusion, particularly in the context of sustainability reporting, governance compliance, and workforce planning. The DEI helps link non-financial performance with broader ESG factors, which are increasingly material to investment analysis and corporate valuation.