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Disclosing disability in the context of professional regulation: a qualitative UK study
- Authors:
- STANLEY Nicky, et al
- Journal article citation:
- Disability and Society, 26(1), January 2011, pp.19-32.
- Publisher:
- Taylor and Francis
In the UK ‘Fitness to Practice’ has been used as a key screening criteria by regulatory bodies for entry into professions such as teaching, nursing and social work. Disclosure of disability is therefore a risky process for those aiming to practice or train in these professions. The research reported here was commissioned to inform the Disability Rights Commission’s Formal Investigation into fitness standards in the professions. In 2006-07 thirty eight practitioners and 22 students throughout England, Scotland and Wales, from the nursing, teaching and social work professions participated in semi-structured interviews to explore their experiences of disability disclosure. Of the participants, 47 were women. They had a range of disabilities, most of which were hidden; 30, including 17 students, had been disabled at entry to the profession, 28 had been disabled at a later stage and 2 were recently disabled. Participants from all three professional groups considered that disclosure of disability was likely to have the effect of excluding them from a professional training programme or post. Disclosing mental health needs was considered particularly likely to have this effect. However, most participants had disclosed their disabilities to some extent. Twenty three practitioners and 17 students reported receiving adjustments or accommodations following disclosure. Change in attitudes among colleagues was another key outcome. Participants varied in their knowledge and understanding of the fitness standards for their profession. The study concluded that abolishing health standards for the professions would increase disability disclosure and decrease the stigma associated with disability.