Disclosing That You Are Blind or Partially Sighted

Disclosure is basically the term used for telling somebody you don’t know, like a work experience provider, university or employer that you are blind or partially sighted.

Legally you do not have to disclose your disability. However, there are benefits in doing so.

A typical fear is that an employer will either ignore your enquiry or find excuses not to take you on placement, or give you a place on a course etc. Whilst this is possible there is a positive side to being up front. As well as a sign of your honesty and integrity, it will help them to better understand and prepare for the right support to be in place.

Remember to communicate positively about your vision impairment. This can include setting out any enhanced skills, knowledge, and abilities you may have and what aids, adaptations and adjustments you may need.

The RNIB has more information about disclosing a disability.