Globally 1 in 6 of us live with a disability – around 1.3 billion people. In Derbyshire 20.4% of residents have a limiting long term illness or disability.
While some of us experience a disability that is visible, many have a non-visible condition or a combination of both. These disabilities can be temporary, situational or permanent. They can be neurological, cognitive and neurodevelopmental as well as physical, visual, auditory and include sensory and processing difficulties. They can also be respiratory, cardiological, as well as chronic health conditions such as arthritis and diabetes, chronic pain and sleep disorders. Disabilities affect all aspects of life, from daily activities, to family life, social activities and employment.
So how do we support our disabled colleagues and become an employer of choice for disabled people?
We are Disability Confident. The Disability Confident scheme aims to help employers make the most of the opportunities provided by employing disabled people. It is voluntary and has been developed by employers and disabled people's representatives.
We are members of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower scheme, a scheme designed to highlight and raise awareness that not all disabilities are visible. Some disabilities, conditions or chronic illnesses are not immediately obvious to others. For some people, this can make it hard to understand and believe that someone, with a 'non-visible' condition genuinely needs support. Some people question whether you have a disability because you don't 'look like you have a disability'.
We have various employee networks. The dis-Ability Inclusion Network acts as a voice for disabled employees, with monthly meetings which are open to everyone. These meetings are a great opportunity to voice concerns, meet and talk to senior managers, heads of service and directors – who are shaping the policies we work to. Paid time off of 3 hours every 3 months is provided for colleagues to attend meetings, participate, engage with, and offer peer support to other colleagues.
Watch out for further articles over the next few weeks where we will highlight various disabilities and how you can offer support to colleagues in the workplace.