Nearly 60% of employees recently surveyed by technology platform Inclusively identify as having a disability but a large percentage of them are reluctant to disclose this to their employer. Inclusively’s platform focuses on fostering inclusive workplaces.
The survey polled nearly 600 part- and full-time employees on the firm’s Hire platform to develop its report, which revealed that many employees feel their employers are not meeting their needs nor providing necessary accommodations.
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“Our research reveals gaps in accommodations among a predominantly Gen Z and millennial workforce. These younger generations are bringing new expectations to the workplace — emphasizing flexibility, support, and a work environment where they can truly show up as their best selves,” said Charlotte Dales, CEO and co-founder at Inclusively. “As these generations continue to shape the workforce, companies must adapt their strategies to ensure they remain competitive and able to retain top talent.”
Employees surveyed say they refrain from disclosing their disability to their employer because they don’t know what could help, they fear stigma and bias, they are afraid of being treated differently, and they are unsure of the request process. Thirty-six percent said they are unaware of workplace resources to address their disability, 28% fear disclosing their disability will impact their career, and 18% are intimidated by the accommodations process. Employees also cited long wait times for approvals or implementation as a discouraging factor.
About 41% of employees said they are ready to quit their job due to poor workplace experiences, including employers not meeting their needs, the report said. Further, only one-third of employees say their employer’s external communications matches their lived experience.
According to Inclusively, 53% of Gen Z identify as neurodiverse, having some form of neurodivergence, like ADHD or dyslexia. In a previous survey, Inclusively found the top disability-related issues are learning disabilities, ADHD and neurodivergence followed by a mental health condition. Chronic illness, mobility challenges, deafness and blindness also were cited as disabilities requiring accommodation at work, as were caregiving responsibilities and immigrant status. Helpful accommodations may include extra time on tasks for employees with ADHD and flexible hours for caregivers and working parents, said the firm.
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