Researcher experiences of disclosure

Here are some different approaches to disclosure of their disability from employed graduates with a research degree.

‘I did not initially receive any support when I started my job here….I did not believe I needed it, as I thought I had the strategies in place to support me within the workplace. However, I do recall that since asking for the assistive software available, this has made a difference to my work. When I asked for the software packages available and additional (computer) memory I found my employer very supportive.’

Postdoctoral graduate with dyslexia

‘I find that the process of disclosure is very sensitive particularly at an early stage in my employment. I find the best way to deal with this issue is to first prove my competence to do the job, then recommend possible ways in they could make reasonable adjustment to the working environment. However, my reluctance to disclose I have a disability until some level of trust is built up between me and the prospective employer means that I have not readily accessed all the range of support services offered’

Research graduate with hidden disability

‘As my disability isn’t visible, I have generally declined to mention it – making an exception only when applying (successfully) to specific disability work schemes such at the Civil Service and the BBC, both of which are positive about disabled people.

The public sector has an especially good attitude toward disabled people, as do a growing number of organisations in the private sector – look out for the ‘two ticks’ logo.’

Research graduate with RSI

‘I disclosed my disability as all employers I applied to were 'double-tick' employers. Employment Opportunities were helpful in providing specific advice and targeted information on disability issues, especially for my 'hidden' disability.’

Postdoctoral graduate with mobility impairment

‘My initial transition to employment was very smooth as I stayed in the same department.

Although ... it has always been down to me to raise issues of concern, I have found that the university has responded quickly and supportively…

In an ideal world, it would be nice if adjustments were offered automatically rather than having to be asked for, but realistically while most non-disabled academic staff continue to have little day to day contact with disabled people, it is probably unrealistic to expect them to know what each individual needs.’

Postdoctoral graduate with cerebral palsy