Invisible Disabilities Week

The motion

That the Parliament recognises Invisible Disabilities Week, which takes place from 16 to 22 October 2022, and which was founded in 2014 by the Invisible Disabilities Association (IDA); notes that invisible disabilities can also be referred to as non-visible or hidden disabilities, as a child or adult may have a neurological, mental, or physical condition that may not seem apparent when looking at someone, but which can be equally as debilitating as a physical disability or visual impairment; further notes that some examples of hidden disabilities include autism, epilepsy, chronic fatigue syndrome, sensory processing disorder, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, anxiety, brain injury and diabetes; highlights what it sees as the importance of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, which discreetly indicates to people around the wearer, such as staff, colleagues and health professionals, that they may need additional support, help or more time when performing everyday tasks; understands that the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower was launched in 2016 and has since been adopted by many businesses, organisations and venues across Scotland and beyond; notes the assistance that it believes the lanyard has provided throughout the COVID-19 pandemic to individuals with hidden disabilities or medical conditions, who may be exempt from wearing face coverings in public places, with it alerting the public that there is a good reason for someone not wearing one; commends all individuals and businesses that have been understanding and accommodating to those unable to wear face masks; notes what it sees as the importance of Invisible Disabilities Week in helping people to feel valued, and give them a voice if they feel they are not represented in society or listened to; considers that it can also give people the confidence to seek support in public places or while travelling, as more companies are training staff on how to help people with invisible disabilities, and encourages everyone to promote the importance of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower and continue to raise awareness of those living with hidden disabilities.

No recorded vote on this motion. Most motions are never debated, and many that are debated are agreed without a division. Vote records are published from 2011.

SNP 15 Con 7 Lab 5 Green 2 LD 1

Party shown is each supporter’s party when the motion was published.

No contribution in the Official Report cites S6M-06323 by reference.