What’s happened 

The Royal College of Podiatry has brought forward and supported a motion on pain and non-visible impairments in the workplace at this year’s TUC Disabled Workers’ Conference in Bournemouth. 

The Conference, taking place from 19 – 20 May, brings together delegates from TUC-affiliated trade unions across the UK to discuss disability rights, workplace policy and employment issues facing disabled workers. 

College member, Marie Laurent, spoke on behalf of the organisation and highlighted the impact that persistent pain, fatigue, neurological conditions and fluctuating disabilities can have on workers whose impairments are often not visible to colleagues or managers. 

In her speech to conference, she said many workers become: “highly skilled at appearing ‘fine’.” 

She described how some workers feel pressure to minimise or mask their symptoms because of concerns about being judged differently or viewed as less capable than colleagues. 

The motion argues that many disabled workers continue to face barriers accessing reasonable adjustments, flexible working arrangements and informed occupational health support. Over time, the cumulative impact can lead some workers to reduce their hours, step back from career progression or leave professions entirely.  

Marie Laurent told the conference: 

“This is not about lowering standards or creating unfair advantage. It is about removing unnecessary barriers so that we can contribute fully and sustainably without damaging our health in the process.” 

The motion calls for: 

• earlier intervention and support 

• properly implemented reasonable adjustments 

• flexible working arrangements 

• improved occupational health support 

• greater awareness of non-visible disabilities and workplace microaggressions 

The College said workplaces should focus on retaining experienced staff and creating environments where workers with non-visible impairments are supported to progress rather than feeling pressured to conceal their conditions. 

Why this matters to members 

The Royal College of Podiatry is both the professional body and a trade union representing podiatrists in the UK and overseas. 

The College develops motions through engagement with workplace representatives, member feedback and wider workforce concerns across healthcare settings. 

This year’s motion reflects broader concerns about workforce retention, staff wellbeing and fair treatment for workers experiencing persistent pain and non-visible impairments.  

The College argued that appropriate support benefits both workers and employers by improving wellbeing, retaining experienced professionals and helping people build sustainable careers. 

What happens next 

Motions debated at the TUC Disabled Workers’ Conference help to influence wider trade union campaigning and policy priorities on disability and workplace rights. 

The Royal College of Podiatry said it would continue to support evidence-based workplace adjustments, fair treatment and inclusive employment practices for workers experiencing non-visible impairments and persistent pain conditions.  

Links and references 

TUC Disabled Workers Conference