As I walked through my local supermarket a few days ago, a friendly voice came over the tannoy system, reminding shoppers of two things. Firstly, their obligation to wear a face covering while in store. Secondly, to be aware that for some people with hidden disabilities this is not possible. I was encouraged by this because I believe it is incredibly important for awareness to be raised of hidden disabilities.
Over the period of the coronavirus outbreak in Scotland, I have been all too aware of the general public’s lack of understanding towards with visible or invisible disabilities. Very recently I received some abusive comments on social media for not wearing a mask. I have a disability that is very visible, yet it did not stop one particular internet troll from passing judgement. When it was pointed out that I have a disability and am therefore exempt, it was suggested that I stay at home.
While I can brush these comments off, it does cause me great concern over the discrimination that others, particularly those with invisible disabilities, are facing. It is comments like this that villainise those who, for legitimate reasons, go shopping without a facemask; and these comments must stop.
The reality that we face is that face coverings are going to be the norm for many months to come and we absolutely cannot expect those unable to wear a mask to avoid public spaces for that long.
Therefore, as a society we need to get better at educating ourselves on disability; at being less quick to judge; and at creating greater inclusion for those who may already be finding this time incredibly isolating.
