- Conference
- 2026 National Community Conference and Seminar
- Date
- 5 November 2025
- Decision
- Carried
This conference notes
1)That hidden disabilities—including but not limited to autism, ADHD, dyslexia, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, mental health conditions, and hearing or visual impairments—affect a significant number of workers in the community sector.
2)Individuals with hidden disabilities often face unique challenges in the workplace, including stigma, lack of understanding, inadequate support, and barriers to reasonable adjustments. Also bullying and harassment.
3)The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated many of these challenges, particularly around remote working, mental health, and access to appropriate support.
4)Many employers in the community sector lack clear policies or training on how to support staff with hidden disabilities, leading to discrimination, isolation, and reduced career progression.
Conference believes
a)That all workers, regardless of disability status, have the right to a safe, inclusive, and supportive working environment.
b)UNISON has a vital role to play in raising awareness, challenging stigma, and advocating for the rights of members with hidden disabilities.
c)Proactive measures are needed to ensure that hidden disabilities are recognised and accommodated in our community workplaces.
This Conference asks the Service Group Executive:
i)To work with Labour Link and the National Executive Council to lobby for statutory disability awareness training for all managers and HR personnel in community employers, with a specific focus on hidden disabilities.
ii)Lobby employers to develop and implement robust policies that support staff with hidden disabilities, including clear procedures for requesting and implementing reasonable adjustments.
iii)Work with UNISON branches to identify and support members with hidden disabilities, ensuring they are aware of their rights and the support available to them.
iv)Promote the use of the Social Model of Disability in all UNISON Community training and campaigning materials.
v)With National Disabled Members Committee encourage the sharing of best practice across community branches and regions, including case studies and resources that highlight successful support for workers with hidden disabilities.