Introduction

Living with a disability can make things more complicated. In the UK, there are over 16 million people who have some form of disability. Always remember that deciding whether to tell others about a disability, especially at work or school, is a personal choice. This choice can affect access to opportunities. Think about Jane, a great software developer, who is unsure about revealing her dyslexia to her boss. Or consider Tom, a university student with mobility issues, wondering how to get the support he needs without facing stigma. So, it is crucial to understand your rights and know the best way to disclose your disability. Hence, this guide offers essential tips for people living in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. At Klarity Health, we hope everyone can confidently make informed decisions.

Statistics about disability in the United Kingdom

Percentage of disabled people by age group

Shows the distribution of disability among children, working-age adults, and pension-age adults. Source: Family Resources Survey (2021 to 2022)

Employment status of disabled people

Compares the employment rate of disabled and non-disabled people. Consider this: in the UK, over 5 million workers have disabilities. Sadly, people with disabilities face an increased likelihood of being out of work (three times more likely) and almost twice as likely to be unemployed compared to those without disabilities. Link to the source.

Extra costs faced by disabled households 

Displays the average extra monthly costs for disabled households in the United Kingdom. Link to the source. 

Proportion of working age people living in poverty

Compares the poverty rates of working-age disabled and non-disabled people. Link to the source.

Total spending power of families with disabled people

Shows the total annual spending power of families with at least one disabled person. Link to the source.

Negative attitudes or behaviours experienced by disabled people

This chart illustrates the negative attitudes and behaviours experienced by disabled people. Think for a minute about how negative stereotypes about disabilities are still very common and have a big impact. This can range from casual glances or glares to more serious charges and verbal or physical mistreatment. As a result, many people with disabilities could end up feeling isolated and lonely. Link to the source.

Disclosing a disability in England

In England, choosing to disclose a disability depends on your own situation and the type of disability. Remember, it is your choice. The Equality Act 2010 aims to protect you from discrimination, ensuring you get fair treatment at work, in school, and when accessing services. According to the Equality Act 2010 an individual with a disability is defined as:

“someone who has a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on his or her ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities”.

Thus, those who meet any of the following criteria can be classified as handicapped under the Equality Act 2010:

• Mental disease or mental health issue
• Physical disability brought on by a disease or an accident
• Learning challenges including dyslexia, ADHD, or conditions on the autistic spectrum
• Chronic disease or medical condition

When to disclose

• Job Applications: You are not obligated to disclose your disability when applying for a job. However, if you need any adjustments during a job interview, it might be a good idea to let the employer know beforehand
• Workplace: Once you're working, you may want to disclose your disability if you need specific accommodations to do your job well. Employers are supposed to make reasonable workplace adjustments to help disabled workers. For instance, if you have a visual impairment and need screen-reading software, informing your employer can facilitate the provision of such tools

How to disclose

• Be straightforward and positive. Highlight how your disability does not impede your abilities but rather how certain adjustments can enhance your productivity
• You should provide any documents or recommendations from doctors that explain the needed accommodations

Example

For example, Jane, with dyslexia, decides to tell her employer about her condition after getting the job. She requests voice recognition software and additional time for tasks involving extensive reading. By giving a doctor's note and explaining how certain adjustments can help her work better, Jane ensures she can perform her job without any issues.

Disclosing a disability in Scotland

In Scotland, if you have a disability, the Equality Act 2010 protects you, similar to the rest of the UK. This means employers and service providers should make reasonable adjustments to help you.

When to disclose

• Education: If you’re in school or university, you might want to disclose your disability so you can get the support you need, such as extra funding or something called Disabled Students Allowance
• Employment: While disclosure during the application process is not mandatory, it can be beneficial if specific accommodations are needed for interviews or job performance

How to disclose

• Be clear about what you need and how those adjustments will help you 
• Moreover, there are organisations like Disability Information Scotland that could guide you on how to disclose

Example

Tom, who has mobility issues, informs his university about his condition. The university arranges accessible housing and provides him with lecture notes in advance to accommodate his needs, ensuring he has equal access to education.

Disclosing the disability in Wales

In Wales, the legal framework provided by the Equality Act 2010 ensures that disabled individuals receive equal treatment and necessary accommodations in various aspects of life.

When to disclose

• Employment: You might want to let your employer know about your disability at any stage – when you apply, after you get the job, or once you’ve started. Early disclosure might make it easier to get the adjustments you need from the get-go
• Access to Services: When accessing public services, disclosing a disability can help in receiving the appropriate support, such as accessible transport options, assistive technology or communication aids

How to disclose

• Approach the conversation positively, focusing on your abilities and the minor adjustments needed to perform effectively
• Provide any relevant documentation to support your request for reasonable adjustments

Example

Sarah, who has hearing loss, discloses her condition to her employer and requests a vibrating pager for emergency alerts. She also asks for meetings to be conducted with clear written agendas. These accommodations help Sarah perform her duties without barriers.

Disclosing the disability in Northern Ireland

In Northern Ireland, the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 and subsequent amendments protect disabled individuals from discrimination. The Act requires employers and service providers to make reasonable adjustments to support disabled people.

When to disclose

• Job Interviews: If you need any tweaks for the interview, it’s a good idea to let them know beforehand
• Workplace: Disclosure is recommended if specific adjustments are necessary to perform your job effectively or to ensure safety at work

How to disclose

• Be clear about your needs and how the adjustments will support your work or access to services
• Seek advice from the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland or similar organisations that offer support and guidance on disclosing disabilities

Example

John, who has epilepsy, discloses his condition to his employer to ensure he works in a safe environment. He requests flexible working hours and a designated person to assist during seizures. By openly communicating his needs, John ensures a supportive and safe workplace.

Finding local support groups for disabled people in the UK

Dealing with challenges brought up by a disability could be tough on your own. So why not seek help and support from people who know exactly what you are going through? 

How to search for local support groups

Use online directories

• Check out sites like Disability Rights UK and Scope. They offer directories and resources for local support groups
• Check Charity Navigator for well-rated organisations that may have local branches

Search social media

• Platforms like Facebook and Twitter often have local support groups or community pages. Use keywords like “disability support” and your location to find relevant groups

Local government websites

• Visit local council websites, as they often list community resources and support services. For instance, search for “disability support groups [your city]” on your council’s website

Contact national organisations

• Reach out to big charities like The National Autistic Society or Royal National Institute of Blind People. They can provide information on local branches and affiliated groups

Community centres and libraries

• Check bulletin boards or ask staff at local community centres and libraries for information on support groups. They often host or know of local support networks

Healthcare providers

Talk to your doctor or specialist. They can often recommend local support groups and services relevant to your specific needs.

Why support groups are helpful

Emotional support

• Connecting with others who share similar experiences can provide comfort and understanding, reducing feelings of isolation

Practical advice

• Gain insights and practical tips from people who have navigated similar challenges, including how to disclose disability at work, coping strategies and how to access services

Resource access

• Support groups often provide information on grants, benefits and services that you may not be aware of

Advocacy

• Many groups advocate for better services and rights for disabled individuals, providing a collective voice to push for systemic change

Social opportunities

• Engage in social activities and community events organised by support groups, helping to build connections and friendships

Skill development

• Some groups offer workshops and training sessions that can help in personal development and skill-building, enhancing your independence and quality of life

By joining local support groups, you can get valuable resources, build a support network and improve your well-being.

Summary

Deciding whether to disclose a disability is a big and personal decision. Knowing your rights helps. The Equality Act 2010 and the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 protect people with disabilities across the UK, ensuring fair treatment and reasonable adjustments in jobs, education and services. Disclose your disability when you need accommodations, focusing on how adjustments can help you. Communicate clearly and positively, and provide any necessary documentation. Seek support from local organisations for guidance. Remember, disclosing your disability might ensure you get the support you need to thrive. If you have useful tips for fellow readers, leave those in the comments section below. Together we have the chance to improve the aforementioned stats, and make the lives of people with disabilities better.