Training with a Disability or Long-term Condition
Overview
Many postgraduate doctors and dentists in training (PGDiTs) will have a disability or long-term health condition, whether a physical disability, a chronic illness, a hidden disability such as a mental health condition or sensory impairment, or a combination. Some PGDiTs will have lived with their condition or impairment since childhood; others may develop or acquire one during their training.
The majority of PGDiTs with disabilities and long-term conditions complete their training and have full and successful careers. The right support, the right adjustments, and a working environment that takes their needs seriously can make all the difference.
All PGDiTs are entitled to support, reasonable adjustments and a training environment in which they can thrive and we expect your educators and employer to work with you to ensure any adjustments you need are appropriately considered and implemented.
An important note on terminology
Whilst one person with a specific condition may view themselves as having a disability, somebody else with the same condition may not. This is a highly personal interpretation and can depend upon the impacts each individual experiences.
Public sector bodies have defined duties within the Equality Act 2010 and as such we adhere to the legislative definition of 'disabled': a physical or mental impairment that has a ‘substantial’ and ‘long-term’ negative effect on your ability to do normal activities.
Our usage of 'disabilities' or 'disabled' within these pages reflects this definition.
We have no interest or desire to impose categorisation or labelling on our PGDiTs. Our focus isn't on the diagnostic side of your health, it is on ensuring you can access and receive the right support for you, whenever you need it.
About this section
The pages in this section will help you to:
- Understand how disabilities and long-term conditions can affect training and clinical work, and what kinds of support and adjustments may help
- Recognise and navigate the stigma that can still surround disability and chronic illness in the medical profession, and find sources of solidarity and support
- Access resources and signposts specifically for PGDiTs with disabilities and long-term conditions, including practical guidance on reasonable adjustments