Disabled UK workers ‘uncomfortable’ in the workplace – Image from iStock
Almost half (43%) of people with a disability have avoided sharing about it because of the belief that it would stall their progression at work or affect promotion, according to research.
Electronic company Samsung UK’s poll has revealed attitudes to hidden and visible disabilities in the workplace.
Its findings show that the UK is a nation uncomfortable talking about disabilities, with nearly half of the population (45%) admitting to not feeling comfortable saying the word ‘disabled’ or ‘disability’ in everyday conversations, creating a feeling of taboo about a condition that affects 14 million people in the UK.
Over a third (38%) of the nation has highlighted a need for more education on the correct way to talk about disability and 70% of people with disabilities feel that their workplace could do more to provide tech that enables greater accessibility, showing the need for greater access and awareness of accessible technology features amongst employers.
Over half of people with disabilities have tried to conceal their challenges from work colleagues owing to the fear of stalling their professional progression or landing a promotion (almost 45%) or being judged and made to feel like an outsider (41%). And 40% felt that their colleagues valued them less after they realised they had a disability.
Despite one in five (20%) of people in the UK having a hidden or visible disability – 65% of people with disabilities wish to remove any embarrassment or awkwardness felt when discussing their challenges with their colleagues. This fear of open conversation leads to 40% of workers with disabilities feeling judged and facing obstacles in their jobs every day.
Everyday challenges faced by people with disabilities at work according to the research include:
- Being negatively stereotyped/judged by colleagues (34%)
- Lack of quiet areas in the office (33%)
- General accessibility, eg, stairs, or space requirements (32%)
- Lack of support (31%)
- Bathroom access/availability (30%)
- Getting into office buildings (29%)
Steven Woodgate, head of category management at Samsung Electronics UK & founder of True Ability, the employee resource group for those with disabilities, said: “I have dyslexia and dyspraxia, they are my superpowers that enable me to provide a different perspective and way of thinking that adds value to my day-to-day role and to the people around me. Physical and neurodiversity should be championed in the workplace and employers need to support this by providing the right tools and technology to allow colleagues with disabilities to thrive, contribute on a level playing field, and to reveal their own individual superpower. But technology is only half the story. To embrace openness, we need to evolve and change workplace culture, and promote inclusion to be at the centre of an organisation to empower employees.”
The research was compiled from a data analysis of government figures and from charity Scope.
