New Guide on 'Unseen' Disabilities for Small Businesses

To help small businesses avoid unintentionally discriminating against people living with long-term conditions, such as HIV and cancer, the National AIDS Trust has produced 'You can't always tell- a guide to 'unseen' disabilities for small businesses.' The free guide provides clear, practical advice to help small business owners ensure that they are providing a fair and equal working environment for employees who may be living with one of these conditions and that they are not breaking the law.

Since the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) was passed in 2005, employees living with HIV, cancer and MS have been protected from discrimination in the workplace effectively from the moment of diagnosis.  Two years on, many small business owners are still unsure about how this legislation affects their employment practices, which could lead to these businesses unknowingly breaking the law.

This new resource gives straightforward guidance to small businesses on their legal obligations towards employees living with an unseen disability, as well as advice on how all businesses should respond to and help any employees affected.  The guide explodes myths surrounding long-term conditions and covers key issues like data protection and reasonable adjustments.

Deborah Jack, Chief Executive of the National AIDS Trust, comments:

"It doesn't matter how big a business is or how many people it employs- all UK businesses need to be aware of how to manage and support people living with long-term conditions like HIV and cancer, which are now defined as disabilities in law. This new guide will enable small businesses to quickly and easily access practical advice as well as find out about their legal obligations to employees."

Phil, manager of the Strongroom Bar and Restaurant in East London, comments:

"I think this will be a very useful resource for all small businesses who want to do the best by their employees, as it sets out all the essential information in a clear and concise way. I'm positive it will bring greater understanding of 'unseen' disabilities to the small business community."

Copies of 'You can't always tell- a guide to 'unseen' disabilities for small businesses', produced as part of the award winning Ensuring Positive Futures project, can be ordered or downloaded free of charge from the National AIDS Trust website at www.employment.nat.org.uk.