It can be very difficult for people with hidden disabilities to have equity in New Zealand today. These disabilities include but are not limited to…Arthritis, back injury, osteoporosis, cystic fibrosis, neurodiversity, mental heath issues, trumatic brain injury, stroke survivers etc. Because these disabilities are not immediately obvious people with them face discrimination in many aspects of life, these can be as simple as being abused for using disabled parking because these disabilities are not obvious on sight.

Other more serious examples are

1 ) When seeing an unfamiliar medical professional issues being dismissed because of time constraints in GP practices ie lack of time on the part of GPs to adequately read previous medical notes.

2) Unrealistic expectations in workplaces, schools etc
Leading to bullying, due to the hidden nature of disabilities.

3) Rudeness experienced by those with these disabilities whilst shopping and in public places because they may be walk slower, have difficulty with verbal expression or misunderstanding what is required of them or said to them.

There are many other examples of where accessibility is denied or limited for those with hidden disabilities, these lead to further disablement due to anxiety and avoidance of going to unfamiliar places or interacting with unfamiliar people. It can also lead to a poverty cycle as workplaces become untenable and for some accommodation option become limited.

I believe there needs to be some protections under law and education of the general public to increase awareness that hidden disabilities exist, are real and truly disabling.