Today marks International Day of People with Disabilities, an annual celebration of people with disabilities.

This year’s theme ‘Not all Disabilities are Visible’ also focuses on spreading awareness and understanding of disabilities that are not immediately apparent, such as mental illness, chronic pain or fatigue, sight or hearing impairments, diabetes, brain injuries, neurological disorders, learning differences and cognitive dysfunctions, among others.

According to the WHO World Report on Disability, 15 per cent of the world’s population, or more than 1 billion people, are living with disability. Of this number, it’s estimated 450 million are living with a mental or neurological condition— and two-thirds of these people will not seek professional medical help, largely due to stigma, discrimination and neglect (idpwd.org)

There are lots of valuable websites and resources available to support the development of knowledge about disabilities, in addition to those resources that offer practical information and support. You’ll find a range of options within the Work Wiltshire website Support for those with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities