Leading Dorset law firm Coles Miller has been recognised as the first Hidden Disability Friendly business by the charity Growing Compassionate Communities.
It means people with hidden disabilities can be sure that Coles Miller staff will have a greater understanding of their needs.
Hidden disabilities are non-visible conditions that can be temporary, situational or permanent.
There are more than 900 hidden disabilities, including autism, brain injuries, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, partial sight or hearing loss, mental health and sensory processing conditions.
Coles Miller played a key role in setting up Growing Compassionate Communities, which is chaired by Peter Jones, Pioneer Minister.
Coles Miller Partner Anthony Weber and Associate Solicitor Kerry Hay of the firm’s Wills & Probate Department are both trustees of the charity. Kerry is the treasurer.
“Being a Hidden Disability Friendly firm shows that we’re compassionate towards people with a wide range of non-visible conditions,” said Kerry.
“Our staff have undergone special training to help them understand the needs of people with hidden disabilities.”
Growing Compassionate Communities is looking to recruit more businesses to the Hidden Disability Friendly programme. It has been working with Wimborne Minster Town Council to help spread the message.
The aim is to reduce the stigma associated with hidden disability by increasing access to shops, businesses and organisations. They can undertake an environmental audit to:
The audit includes signage, lighting, flooring, seating, toilets, ease of navigation around the building – and whether it has a quiet space for people who might be anxious or confused.
Growing Compassionate Communities also helps:
England has one of the highest dementia diagnosis rates in the world. Record numbers of dementia cases make it more important than ever to have valid powers of attorney and an up-to-date will, warns Coles Miller.
Coles Miller staff are members of the Association of Lifetime Lawyers (formerly known as Solicitors for the Elderly). This trusted national organisation accredits lawyers that specialise in providing legal advice to older and vulnerable people, their families and carers.
Coles Miller’s wills and probate lawyers help clients with wills, probate, Inheritance Tax planning, estate administration, powers of attorney, trusts, care home funding, Court of Protection matters, advance medical decisions, charities and equity release.
For more information, contact Coles Miller Associate Solicitor Kerry Hay.