HUMAN RESOURCES
DISCLOSURE OF A DISABILITY
If you have recently applied for a post you may have declared that you have a disability. We
also understand that members of staff can develop a disability while working for the University
or decide that now is the right time to disclose an existing disability.
To enable the University to assist you as much as possible we would be grateful if you could
complete the following information.
What is a Disability?
The Equality Act 2010 gives disabled people protection from discrimination in employment
and gives employers specific duties and responsibilities.
It describes a disabled person as: “anyone who has a physical or mental impairment which
has a substantial and long term adverse effect on his or her ability to carry out normal day-today activities.”
This definition may include, for example, people with heart disease, diabetes, epilepsy,
severe disfigurement, depression, schizophrenia and dyslexia as well as mobility, visual or
hearing disabilities. Anyone who has been diagnosed as having cancer, HIV or multiple
sclerosis is covered by the Act from the date of diagnosis. You are also included if you are
registered blind or partially sighted or certified blind or partially sighted by a consultant
ophthalmologist.
When deciding if you come within the definition, think about the effect of your impairment
without treatment or medication (except for eyesight that can be corrected by glasses or
contact lenses). Long term means for at least 12 months.
Where can I get more information?
If you would like to talk to someone about disability and your rights, the Equality Advisory
Support Service can give free advice, information and guidance to individuals on equality,
discrimination and human rights issues. Helpline: Voice line: 0800 444 205; Text users: 0800
444 206 ; Skype video BSL calls via the Royal Association for Deaf People.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission also has information on its website
www.equalityhumanrights.com/advice-and-guidance/guidance-for-workers/
What do I do next?
For new applicants please complete the form below and email it to
recruitment@newcastle.ac.uk.
For existing staff, please complete the form below and email it to your Human Resources
Adviser or Manager.
©Human Resources, Newcastle University
Page 1 of 3
Disclosure of a Disability
January 2014
HUMAN RESOURCES
Title: ……………
First Name ........................................................ Middle Name(s): ……….............………...
Preferred First Name: …………………………… Personnel Number: …………..….....……
(Existing staff)
Surname: .............................................................Date of Birth:...........................................
(Last name)
(DD/MM/YY)
APPLICANTS FOR A VACANCY PLEASE COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING:
Vacancy Reference Number: ………………………..
Position Applied for: ………………………………….
Academic/Service Unit: …………………………………………………………………………..
(where the post is based)
1. Please indicate, by ticking the relevant boxes, which of the following categories
your disability(ies) come under:
Specific learning disability such as dyslexia or dyspraxia
General Learning disability such as Down’s syndrome
Cognitive Impairment (such as autistic spectrum disorder or resulting from a head
injury)
Long standing Illness or health condition such as cancer, HIV, diabetes, chronic heart
disease or epilepsy
Mental Health condition such as depression or schizophrenia
Physical impairment or mobility issues such as difficulty using arms or using a
wheelchair or crutches
Deaf or serious hearing impairment
Blind or other visual impairment
Other type of disability (please provide details) ............................................................
.......................................................................................................................................
2. Please indicate whether you need any special arrangements made for you at work
or to attend the interview.
©Human Resources, Newcastle University
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Disclosure of a Disability
January 2014
HUMAN RESOURCES
3. Please let us know if you are not sure what you need and/or you would like to know
more about the support or assistance available for you in your job or if you
appointed to the post. Tick one.
Yes, I would like to discuss the matter with someone from Human Resources.
No, I do not wish to discuss support arrangements.
4. Declaration:
I give my consent to this information being processed which means amending
my Personnel record to state that I have a disability.
I understand that this information will also be used anonymously for statistical
analysis and reports.
©Human Resources, Newcastle University
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Disclosure of a Disability
January 2014