Cooperative Education & Careers Division

Many students are concerned about how, when, and even whether they should disclose a disability to a potential employer. This is particularly true in the case of a hidden disability. For many students, disclosure increases anxiety when preparing for placement or interviews.

Here are some of the typical student queries regarding disclosure:

• Are you required to inform a potential employer?
• Do you disclose at the application stage?
• Will it come up for discussion at the interview?

Disclosing a disability, particularly a hidden disability, is a matter of personal choice. There are several appropriate times to disclose. What is important is that it is done in a positive manner; focus on positive abilities. Discuss your concerns about disclosure with a Careers Advisor.

Increasingly, through improved awareness, most employers understand that many people with disabilities need no adjustments at all to enable them to work on equal terms with others. The Careers Service promotes and supports disability awareness amongst its network of employers.

Students with disabilities should have early and frequent contact with the Careers Service. The Careers Support Service was set up to address the individual and diverse needs of students with disabilities. Click on Career Appointments to arrange a meeting.

The following web sites provide helpful advice on positive disclosure

1. Positive Disclosure

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