A critical evaluation of the contradictions for disabled workers arising from the emergence of the flexible labour market in Britain

In Britain, as in all industrialised countries 'paid work' or employment is central to the economy of the state. This perspective raises important imp lications for theories of disability and work, and for further research in this area. This paper attempts to provide a critical evaluation of the contradictions arising from the flexible labour market for disabled workers and how the co ncept of the Disabled State has been eroded along with notions of disabled people as the 'deserving poor'. Policies now demonstrate a commitment to a labour market free from restrictive practices and regulation. It appears th at new technologies and specific personal communication skills, initiative, flexibility and adaptability will play an increasing part in new labour wo rking trends. In short, theories of disability and work must change focus f rom 'production' to 'process'.