Disclosing That You Are Blind or Partially Sighted

Disclosure is 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. For example, in education, it can enable you to receive the support you need, so you can enjoy your studies as much as possible. This could include assistive technology,  an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP), or other support that is available at school.

A typical fear is that an employer will either ignore your enquiry or find excuses not to take you on placement,  give you a place on a course. 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.

AHEAD has a helpful guide withinformation about disclosing a disability. Brookes Blog has a excellent page on their website, with tips for disclosing a disability, and examples of how to do so. For more tips about disclosing your visual impairment in education, why not check out our guide?