Not all disabilities are visible…

Not all disabilities are visible…

When we think of disability, we often picture visible supports — a wheelchair, a walking frame, or a hearing aid. But not all disabilities can be seen. In fact, according to the Hidden Disabilities organisation, 80% of disabilities are invisible — affecting more than one billion people globally.

At The Y Inclusion Services, we know that true inclusion means supporting all people with disability — whether their disability is visible or not.

What are Hidden Disabilities?

Also known as invisible or non-visible disabilities, these conditions impact a person’s day-to-day life, even though they may not have any physical signs. They include:

• Autism

• ADHD

• Learning difficulties and intellectual disabilities

• Mental health conditions like anxiety or depression

• Chronic illnesses or pain (e.g. fibromyalgia, MS)

• Hearing or vision impairments

• Brain injuries

• Respiratory conditions and mobility issues
  …and many others.

Some individuals may use assistive devices like hearing aids or glasses, while others may not — making their disability even less apparent to others.

A lack of understanding around hidden disabilities can lead to discrimination, isolation, and a lack of support, especially in public spaces where people are expected to move quickly, communicate clearly, or cope with bright lights and loud noise.

The power of the Sunflower symbol

To raise awareness and promote compassion, the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower symbol was launched in the UK in 2016 and is now recognised worldwide — including here in Whittlesea.

The sunflower lanyard, badge or wristband is a simple way for a person to let others know they might need support, extra time, or patience in public settings. Many airports, hospitals, shopping centres, local governments and businesses have trained staff to recognise the sunflower and offer help respectfully and discreetly.

At The Y Inclusion Services, we have online training and sunflower kits available for staff. We are a Hidden Disability organisation and support the use of this symbol and the growing movement around education and empathy for all types of disability.

Inclusion in action at the Y

We proudly offer a range of Community Supports that empower neurodiverse young people and those with hidden and visible disabilities to connect, grow, and thrive.

Through our community support and Social Group programs, we work one-on-one with participants to:

• Understand their unique communication and support needs

• Create safe and sensory-friendly spaces

• Build confidence, independence, and friendships

• Promote self-advocacy and visibility in the community

We know inclusion is not just about physical access — it’s also about being understood and accepted for who you are.

What can you do?

Everyone in the community has a role to play. You can:

• Learn about different disabilities and how they affect people

• Offer empathy and patience when someone needs extra support

• Encourage your networks to become more inclusive

By recognising that not all disabilities are visible, we move closer to building communities where everyone feels safe, included, and respected.

At The Y Inclusion Services, we’re proud to be part of that journey — and we invite you to walk alongside us.