How and When to Disclose a Disability in a Job Application

If you have a disability, you may be unsure on what time and in what way is best disclose it. We understand that you may be uncertain of what to say and ultimately how to say it. That’s why we want to let you know about your rights regarding your disability and what benefits disclosure can bring.

Firstly, What are Your Rights?

Legally it is against the law for a company to discriminate against you due to your disability. The Equality Act 2010 provides you with protection against this through a number of policies.

One example of this is during the recruitment process an employer is not allowed to ask you questions about your disability unless it is related to making adjustments to assist you, or deciding whether you are able to do an essential task required in the role.

Essentially it is up to you when you feel most comfortable disclosing your disability. However, the application process provides opportunities to do so when:

• Answering a question on an application form or medical questionnaire
• Writing your covering letter or CV
• Informing your employer about attending a specialist school or worked for organisations that relating to disabilities if you did so

What are the Benefits of Disclosing Your Disability?

First and foremost, the main benefit of telling your employer/potential employer about your disability is that you will be able to get any support you may require during the application process or the job role itself.

Once you have told your employer that you are disabled, they must consider any request for support in accordance with The Equality Act. There are many services put in place to support you including the Access to Work scheme. This scheme can help to cover the costs of any adjustments that may make it easier for you to do your job. To find out more about this scheme visit our page dedicated to grants and schemes available to you.

In addition to this, after disclosing your disability you may feel like a weight has been lifted off your shoulders, helping you to feel more positive about work moving forwards.

In Conclusion

The best time to disclose your disability is when you feel most comfortable in doing so. There are many ways you can let employers know you have a disability, so it is important you don’t feel any pressure in doing so. It is important to acknowledge that although you may be worried about disclosing your disability it is ultimately the best thing you can do. This is because it will give you the chance to gain extra help and support in reaching your full potential.

If you want more information regarding grants and schemes, your rights, or help available in your local area, visit our Careers with Disabilities homepage for additional details.