Line managers get expert help with new non-visible disabilities guide

20th January 2010

Line managers can now get expert advice on non-visible disabilities, thanks to a new guide launched today by Employers' Forum on Disability (EFD).

Many disabilities are not immediately apparent, though most people associate disability with visible conditions and impairments. For example, 10 million people are covered by the Disability Discrimination Act, but fewer than 5,000 blind and partially sighted people own guide dogs.

‘Non-visible disabilities’, sponsored by Microlink UK (PLC), enables managers to make reasonable adjustments for employees whose disabilities are not immediately apparent. It helps managers to:

• Understand what non-visible disabilities are;
• Identify how work can be done differently to maximise the potential of your disabled and non-disabled staff, i.e. make reasonable adjustments;
• Treat your disabled and non-disabled colleagues fairly while maintaining confidentiality.

Susan Scott-Parker, Chief Executive of EFD, said: “This guide will help managers make the most of the talents of their employees and customers with non-visible disabilities. Many employers may not realise how relatively small adjustments can make a big difference, both to an individual’s performance as well as bringing wider business benefits.

“After all, talented people like Richard Branson and Stephen Fry have non-visible conditions that are covered by the Disability Discrimination Act.  Their success shows that conditions like dyslexia, depression and other disabilities need not be a barrier to success."

Ends

Notes to editors

To review a copy of this guide, please contact:

Liz Nightingale, Communications Manager
Employers' Forum on Disability
Email: liz.nightingale@efd.org.uk
Telephone: 020 7403 3020

About Microlink

Microlink PC UK Ltd was established 17 years ago to help disabled people acquire 'independence through assistive technology'. Since then it has grown to become the country's largest independent supplier of assistive technology (any technology which removes a barrier to a person with a disability reaching their life potential). As well as becoming the distribution hub of a fast growing network of national offices across England, Wales & Scotland, the Chandlers Ford head quarters is a centre for research and development that also houses Europe's largest telephone based technical support team for disabled people.
www.microlinkpc.co.uk

Media enquiries, please contact:

Brenda Otema, Communications & Marketing Officer
Employers' Forum on Disability
Email: brenda.otema@efd.org.uk
Telephone: 020 7403 3020

About Employers' Forum on Disability

Employers' Forum on Disability is the employers' organisation focused on disability as it affects employers and service providers. With over 300 members, EFD represents organisations that employ around 20 per cent of the UK workforce.Since its establishment in 1991, EFD has worked closely with government and other stakeholders, sharing best practice to make it easier to employ disabled people and serve disabled customers.

www.efd.org.uk