Why you shouldn’t hide your superpowers: Being open about disability and neurodiversity with ARU Temps Let’s talk about something important and often misunderstood when it comes to job hunting and temp work - disclosing a disability or neurodivergence. Whether you identify as disabled, dyslexic, neurodiverse, or have a long-term health condition, you don’t need to hide it. Especially not from ARU Temps. I’ll be honest, I didn’t start out confident about my differences - I joined ARU as a student in 2007 and, after graduating in 2011, returned to work here. I have generalised anxiety, undiagnosed ADHD and dyscalculic (which makes numbers and focus a real challenge sometimes!). But you know what? I’m amazing at my job - because of my brain, not despite it. My neurodiversity gives me creativity, empathy, problem-solving skills, and the ability to see things from a different angle. Like many people, Over time, I’ve seen how much of a positive difference it makes to feel understood and supported. The encouragement I’ve had from family, friends, and colleagues has allowed me to grow in confidence and in my career. If this blog article helps just one person to feel reassured, understood, and confident in being themselves at work, I will be very happy. Why disclosure matters When you tell us about your disability or neurodiversity, it’s not about putting a label on you - it’s about empowering you. It helps us: Make sure you’re matched with the most suitable roles. Offer support and reasonable adjustments. Champion your strengths to employers who value diverse talent. And here’s the big one - disclosing a disability won’t affect your chances of getting a job or being offered a position through ARU Temps. We’re here to make sure you have the same opportunities as everyone else and the confidence to shine. Support at ARU If you’re studying at ARU, you already have access to an incredible network of support. Our Disability and Dyslexia Team is here to help you throughout your studies, from providing advice and adjustments to helping you access the right resources and guidance. They’re a fantastic team who understand that every student is different. Their support can make a huge difference to you both at university and when starting work. 👉 Find out more about the support available through ARU’s Disability and Neurodiversity Service here. The workplace is changing...for the better Many organisations now have dedicated EDI (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion) teams. They exist to support employees, raise awareness, and make workplaces fairer, more flexible, and more understanding. EDI is now recognised as a fundamental part of every successful organisation’s culture and strategy. Businesses understand that diverse teams are more innovative because: Inclusion improves performance and retention. A strong EDI culture boosts reputation and attracts top talent (like you!). Diversity creates workplaces where everyone can thrive, feel supported and bring their whole selves to work. When you disclose, you’re helping us — and future employers — continue building How to disclose on your ARU Temps profile If you’d like to share information about a disability or neurodiversity, here’s how: Go to your ARU Temps profile. Head to the “About Me” section. Click on “Personal.” Find “Do you have any disabilities, long-term health conditions, or neurodivergent conditions that you would like us to be aware of?” Click YES, and a box will appear where you can tell us more. Final thought Your disability or neurodiversity isn’t something to hide, it’s a part of what makes you, you. The workplace is finally catching up to that reality, and at ARU Temps, we want to make sure you’re supported, celebrated, and set up to succeed. So go ahead - own your superpowers and let us help you shine. 🌟 Useful resources ARU’s Disability and Neurodiversity Service UK Government Press Release - Employment prospects for neurodiverse people set to be boosted with launch of new expert panel JAN25 Business Insider Article - I'm a neurodivergent tech worker. I thought my traumatic brain injury would hurt my career, but it made me a better leader. OCT25 NHS Employers Article MAY25 - Embracing neurodiversity in the workplace d&i Leaders Article - Why neuro-inclusion is the future of work AUG24