In News

It is thought that there are over 14 million people in the UK alone with a disability and that 80% of those people have a hidden disability. Hidden disabilities are defined as any condition that is not immediately visible to others and as such, visitors with hidden disabilities have a varied range of needs, which can make it difficult to know how to help.

With these tips, you will be able to make life easier for those with hidden disabilities, whether they are visiting you at your establishment or if you are planning a trip with people who have additional needs.

Firstly, never expect people to prove their disability

Not everyone is comfortable disclosing their invisible conditions, nor should they feel that they have to announce their needs. Many people with hidden disabilities will use a Sunflower Lanyard to discreetly indicate that they might need extra support, others will have a Blue Badge and are entitled to use them – as a rule, do not question people who have a Blue Badge and are using those spaces and be considerate that everyone may need help or extra time.

People with hidden disabilities have reported that they feel stigmatised and attacked when questioned about why they need to use an accessible toilet or have access to parking spaces.

Improving your businesses

Signs

You don’t have to do much to make your business accessible, having easy access to a bathroom, designated parking and installing a lift or a ramp will all help make things easier for visitors with additional needs. Also consider your signage – people with Hidden Disabilities will appreciate reminders that not all disabilities are visible, plus some may struggle with their hearing, their sight or have difficulty reading certain fonts. Make sure any signs are in a clear, dyslexia friendly font and write in simple English that can be easily understood. Include transcripts and subtitles for any screens, attach Alt-text to graphics, use approved colours and provide a good contrast in colours to help those with visual impairments.

Approach everyone as an individual

Some people will be comfortable with making eye contact and asking for help, others won’t. If you approach every guest without any preconceived notions, you will be better placed to help them.

Create a quiet space

Some people with autism and other neurodivergent conditions will become easily overstimulated with noises, colours and crowds, so try to create a space they can escape during their visit. Normalise allowing guests to wear headphones and be lenient with any dress codes.

Offer as many facilities as you can

We know you won’t be able to provide something for everyone, but having a little of everything will create a more inclusive environment for a greater number of people. Think about hearing loops, offering information in Braille or placing seating throughout so people can take their time and rest where they need to.

Be aware

There are a host of hidden disabilities, so it is hard to provide facilities that will suit everyone. One way you can help is to be aware of some of the more common conditions, here are some to get you started.

Chronic Pain

Chronic Pain is one of the most common ailments, there are over 430,000 living with arthritis in the UK for instance. Conditions like Arthritis, Fibromyalgia and Ehlers Danos can all be difficult to spot and can cause flare ups, meaning that your guests might be fine one day and in pain the next.

Neurological conditions

We’re not talking about neurodivergence here but conditions like MS, epilepsy and Parkinson’s all of which can be hard to spot. Having warnings about flashing lights, for instance, can make a huge difference to visitors. 

Learning disabilities

Dyslexia, dyscalculia and dyspraxia fall under this bracket and are invisible but may affect someone’s enjoyment of your establishment. Using dyslexia friendly fonts and straight forward English will make things more inclusive for all guests.

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