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Hints and Tips



Page 18

Tips on disclosing your disability to employers

Disclosing your disability means telling a potential employer that you have a disability. It is an individual decision. It is important to know that you have no legal obligation to disclose your disability unless it is likely to affect your job performance.

Tips to remember

  1. The best time to disclose is usually when you meet the employer at a job interview instead of on your CV.
  2. If you need to use equipment for an interview, you may need to disclose your disability before your interview.
  3. Be truthful when asked if you have a disability on a job application form, but add a note to explain the equipment you would use and funding that might be available plus the support that the Foundation can provide.
  4. When you are offered an interview, ask if there will be any testing or forms to complete so you can prepare equipment to assist you.
  5. Practice disclosing your disability with family and friends.
  6. Be positive and affirm your suitability for the role. Use positive body language.
  7. As part of disclosure, explain how you would overcome any challenges in the workplace and give examples.
  8. Discuss funding available that might assist in the purchasing of any specialised equipment that you might need.
  9. It is against the law for a prospective employer to discriminate against you because you have a disability.

I'm still unsure if I should disclose my disability

If you are certain that you are able to do the job without any modifications, it is not necessary to disclose.

If you are in any doubt, it is a good idea to tell your employer. Keep in mind that employers appreciate honesty but may or may not have any knowledge about vision impairment. Be open to explaining how you do things. Think about what information would be important to you if you were the employer.

The Foundation's Employment Services team can assist you with preparing for interviews and provide information that may be useful for the potential employer. To find out more contact Thomas Bryan on 0800 24 33 33.

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