1.3 Hidden disabilities
DiversityQ (2021) explains that 80% of people with disabilities in the UK have a hidden disability. These include: Autism, brain injuries, chronic pain, Cystic Fibrosis, Diabetes, Epilepsy, depression and other mental health conditions, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Multiple Sclerosis.
Because such conditions are not always easily noticeable, support can be limited and inclusion can become an issue in the workplace. Some individuals with these types of conditions may not perceive themselves as having a disability and so may not ask for help.
DiversityQ recommends that having a culture of ‘psychological safety and transparent communications is essential’ and it is worth ‘making an internal statement that your firm is willing to make adjustments and relevant provisions to support workers with a variety of conditions that impact on their daily activities.’
You’ll learn more about psychological safety in Week 8.