This includes people with disabilities, which are sometimes hidden or not always easy to notice.
As part of our Disability Awareness Month, we would like to raise awareness and understanding of hidden disabilities, and the impact they can have.
How can hidden disabilities affect people?
Hidden disabilities affect millions of people in the UK, and the challenges they face can impact them greatly.
Many people living with the challenges of hidden disabilities are still fully active in their work, families, sports or hobbies. Some with disabilities can work full or part-time but struggle to get through their day with little or no energy for other things. Others are unable to maintain employment due to their disability, have trouble with daily living activities and need assistance with their care.
Living with these conditions can make daily life more difficult for many people. They affect each person in different ways and can be painful, exhausting, and isolating. Without visible signs of the hidden disability, it can be difficult for others to understand the challenges.
It can be easy to make a snap judgement on what people are capable of by what they look like. This attitude can be equally frustrating for those who may appear unable but are perfectly capable, as well as those who seem able, but are not.
How can you support people with hidden disabilities?
As hidden disabilities are often not easy to identify, try to always be accommodating of others and try to notice signs where someone may have extra needs.
It is important to remember that people do not need to tell others that they have a disability if they would rather not. This can unfortunately mean people not do not always get the support they need or are judged due to the challenges their hidden disability can cause.
Some people with disabilities choose to wear a sunflower lanyard, so you may be able to spot people through this symbol. However, it not every person with a disability will wear a lanyard.
So, the best way you can support people with hidden disabilities is to be understanding and accommodating of the needs of different people and treating everyone with empathy and compassion.
Even a small gesture to try and help someone can go a long way.
To find out more about our commitment to supporting our customers and colleagues with disabilities, visit the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion area of our website.