Nicholls and Clarke Phlexicare

Invisible Disabilities Awareness

What is an invisible disability?

 

Invisible disabilities are illnesses or conditions which are not immediately and visually apparent from a physical perspective. They can include visual impairments, auditory or cognitive dysfunctions, fatigue, dizziness and various forms of pain. Diseases such as Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis and other forms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease affect hundreds of thousands of people in the UK. Conditions like these and many others are often overlooked by the public as they are not a phyical disability. It is important to understand the challenges and how much disabled facilities such as toilets, parking and priority seats help when its needed.

 

Many people who suffer from invisible illnesses often find it hard or embarrassing asking for a seat on public transport or entering a disabled toilet as they feel that people believe that disabled facilities and resources are “not for them” as they can’t physically see their disability. It is often noticed that people would assume that someone who 'looks well' is well and unfortunately that is not always the case.

 

In order to raise awareness for invisible disabilities, N&C Phlexicare are giving away FREE blue heart badges to help raise awareness to those who suffer from invisible disabilities. It wont change peoples perceptions overnight but its a bid to open doors for conversation. 'Education overcomes arrogance' and its this motto that is key to our campaign.

 

For commercial purposes, N&C Phlexicare have also introduced a new 'All Inclusive Toilet Sign' that aims to remind people that not all disabilities are visible. This now incorporates our blue heart shape to promote invisible disabilities. The symbol is also used throughout N&C Phlexicare manufactured products such as the official RADAR Lock and Key Scheme.