The article discusses the recent incident at Greggs, where an employee asked a customer with Fowler’s Syndrome to prove her disability to use a disabled toilet. This sparked conversations about the importance of understanding and addressing hidden disabilities in the workplace.
Key Points
- The incident highlights the necessity for HR to train staff in empathy and inclusive communication regarding invisible disabilities.
- Educating employees on disabilities fosters a more psychologically safe environment where individuals feel they can disclose their conditions without fear of judgement.
- HR leaders are encouraged to embed inclusive policies and conduct accessibility reviews to ensure a supportive workplace culture.
- Organisations should act on discrimination swiftly, ensuring proper investigations and corrective actions to prevent future occurrences.
- Training staff on disability awareness can significantly reduce incidents stemming from ignorance and misconceptions.
Why should I read this?
This article is a must-read, especially if you’re in HR or management. It sheds light on a crucial yet often overlooked topic that affects countless employees. By understanding the dynamics of hidden disabilities, you can help create a more inclusive and supportive work environment, which is not only beneficial for your team but essential for fostering a culture of empathy and respect.