Proactive Inclusion: Recognising Non-Visible Disabilities

Not all disabilities are visible — yet they profoundly shape how people experience public life. Around 80% of the global disabled population has a non-visible disability, such as chronic illness, neurodivergence, or mental health conditions. Because these disabilities aren’t always apparent, individuals often face misunderstanding, stigma, or a lack of support. Proactive disability inclusion means anticipating and meeting these needs before someone is forced to self-advocate. 

This session explores how recognising and respecting non-visible disabilities can help create inclusive, accessible spaces across public services, transport, and civic life. Central to this is the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower — a symbol now used in over 80 countries to discreetly signal a need for support, time, or understanding. We’ll explore how it’s shifting attitudes, reducing stigma, and embedding disability inclusion into everyday interactions, policies, and environments.