Inclusivity has rightly become a major focus in recent years, and for good reason. While every business is driven by the bottom line, the data is clear: companies that champion diversity and inclusivity attract greater loyalty from both customers and employees. But supporting inclusivity isn’t just about boosting profits – it’s about creating a culture that values every individual. For employers, this means going beyond surface-level gestures and implementing real, meaningful changes that support all employees, including those with long-term conditions and non-visible disabilities. By doing so, businesses have the power to not only transform their workplaces but to influence global perceptions and lead the way in shaping a more inclusive future.Employers who prioritize creating environments where everyone can thrive, including those with long-term conditions and non-visible disabilities, are not only fulfilling a legal obligation but unlocking the full potential of their workforce. Yet, despite the fact that, according to the Business Disability Forum, around 80% of disabilities are not immediately visible, many organizations still fall short of addressing the unique challenges these employees face.At YuLife, we’re passionate about employee wellbeing. We understand that creating a culture of support is not only good for employees but also essential for any organization to thrive. In this blog we’ll explore some of the practical strategies employers can adopt to better support staff with non-visible disabilities.Understanding non-visible disabilitiesBefore diving into strategies, though, it’s important to clarify what non-visible disabilities are. These conditions aren’t immediately apparent but can significantly impact an individual’s daily life and performance. They can include mental health disorders, chronic illnesses, autoimmune diseases, and neurodivergent conditions such as ADHD or autism.The World Health Organization estimates that 1.3 billion people globally live with a disability, a staggering number that underscores the urgent need for workplaces to move beyond a purely visual understanding of disability. Strategies for supporting employees with long-term conditions and non-visible disabilities1. Build an open and supportive cultureCreating an environment where employees feel safe to discuss their health conditions is fundamental. Leadership plays a vital role; when leaders openly discuss their own health journeys, it sends a message of authenticity and normalizes conversations around wellbeing.Encourage open dialogue by training managers on how to approach sensitive conversations. Implement initiatives such as a "This is Me" form, which gives employees the opportunity to confidentially share their needs, preferences, or experiences. These steps demonstrate to employees that their wellbeing is valued.2. Implement flexible working arrangementsFlexibility is often a lifeline for employees managing long-term conditions. The rise of hybrid working during the pandemic showed how adaptable workplaces can be when prioritizing employee needs, so why not make this company policy?Offering options such as remote working, flexible hours, or adjusted workloads allows your employees to better balance their health with work demands. It’s also essential to formalize this flexibility through clear policies, and to regularly review arrangements to ensure they remain effective for both employees and the organization.3. Provide reasonable adjustmentsThe Americans with Disabilities Act prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities and guarantees equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities in employment. Start by conducting occupational health assessments to identify people’s specific needs. For example, assistive technologies such as screen readers or noise-cancelling headsets can make a significant difference. Adjusting your work environment, such as setting up quiet zones or ergonomic workstations, goes even further to ensure that all employees can perform at their best.4. Offer comprehensive benefits and support servicesA robust employee benefits package can make a significant difference in supporting those members of your team with long-term conditions. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), such as YuLife’s YuMatter, and Group Disability Insurance provide essential financial and emotional support.It’s also important that you ensure your benefits package is accessible and easy to navigate. Partnering with specialist organizations can also expand the range of services offered, such as mental health support or counseling, to better address employee needs.5. Educate and raise awarenessEducation is key to building understanding and reducing the stigma around non-visible disabilities. When your team is well-informed, they’re more likely to act with empathy and effectively support their colleagues.Regular diversity and inclusion training sessions should be part of your workplace culture. Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) can also play a vital role in promoting awareness and driving meaningful dialogue. Share educational content about various non-visible disabilities to build understanding across the organization.6. Use inclusive language and practicesLanguage matters. Words shape perceptions and attitudes, and using inclusive language is a simple yet powerful way to make employees feel valued.Avoid using terms such as ‘normal’ or ‘regular’ when referring to non-disabled individuals. It’s also a good idea to regularly review internal communications and provide your staff with guidelines on inclusive language. Finally, when planning events, ensure that all activities are accessible and considerate of employees with varying needs.The impact of supportive practicesSupporting employees with long-term conditions and non-visible disabilities makes them feel more valued, and research shows that when employees feel supported, they are more engaged, loyal, and productive. At YuLife, we know that promoting inclusivity goes hand in hand with encouraging healthy lifestyle changes. By supporting employees with non-visible disabilities and long-term conditions, organizations send a powerful message that every individual matters.About YuLifeYuLife is working to reimagine the insurance industry by protecting lives, rewarding living and inspiring life. We’re on a mission to transform traditional insurance into a life-enhancing experience each employee will value and use daily. How does it work?Our award-winning app uses behavioural science and game mechanics to reward your people for living well while offering protection in case of crisis. And with our top-rated employee assistance programme, your team gets access to mental, financial and social support, virtual GPs, nutritionists, life coaches and more to help them live their best lives.Because we believe that your employees should benefit from their insurance from day one — and that wellbeing should be accessible every day, for everyone.Request a demo for your team today.