Disclosure

Disclosure means informing your employer, or potential employer, of your disability. You will need to consider if you wish to disclose your disability, and if you do, when, and how. All students should reflect on disclosing their disability within the work environment.

You may want to disclose your disability as a personal preference; to highlight skills, understanding, and attributes; to obtain supports or accommodations; for health and safety reasons; or to secure time off for illness or appointments.

You may not want to disclose your disability because you feel that your disability is unlikely to affect you in a particular job; you feel you may receive differential treatment within the recruitment process or in the work environment.

It is okay to decide not to disclose. However, it is still a good idea to prepare for disclosure in case you change your mind in the future (for example, if your personal circumstances or employment conditions / tasks change). When disclosing, preparation is the key. Know what you want to say, and ensure you get your message across clearly. Disclosure should always include well-defined information about what accommodations/support you will need to perform to the best of your ability. Remember it is illegal to discriminate due to a disability. 

When should I disclose?

You may wish to disclose at any stage: before an interview; during an interview; before starting work, upon starting work; or when an issue arises. This is a personal choice and will depend on why you are disclosing.  For example, if you need an accessible interview room, you will need to disclose this prior to the interview. If you require assistive technology to fulfill your job function, you may wait until after you have received an offer of employment, but before your first day on the job.

How should I disclose?

The amount of information you disclose is a personal choice and will depend on why you are disclosing. You only need to disclose the details that are necessary for the purpose of receiving supports. You do not need to disclose your whole medical history. However, ensure you provide sufficient information to allow your employer to support you effectively.

Do state clearly how your disability may impact your everyday work and any adjustments that may be required to complete your job effectively. Offer more than a medical term; this will not help your employer support you.& Do highlight the skills and attributes you have developed whilst living with a disability.Do help allay any anxieties your new employer may have by describing how you have managed your disability in previous jobs, and within your study.

"The work place can be a great place to blossom and explain your disability.” TCD graduate