Neurodiversity 101: From “disclosure” to “sharing needs”: shifting language, shifting power... The word disclosure comes from the Latin disclaudere — “to unclose” or “open up what was shut”. It entered English in the 14th century and has long implied revealing something hidden, private, or sensitive. In workplaces we are expecting people to reveal things about ourselves - when sometimes we are not ready, or not know what to say,.. or what to ask for... In medicine, law, and psychology, disclosure became the accepted term for revealing a diagnosis or condition. But in the neurodiversity world, it’s worth pausing to ask: what are we really saying when we use this word? the weight behind the word “Disclosure” can suggest: A power imbalance – where one person must justify or explain themselves - some people feel under pressure to say something but may not be ready to do so. A sense of risk or vulnerability - some people may have had poor past experiences and be concerned about the impact of 'revealing' they are neurodivergent. While sometimes necessary (for example, in requesting reasonable adjustments), the word can unintentionally medicalise identity and labelling something that is far more complex or imply that differences are something to confess. It may actually miss out on crucial information or may mean somebody else make assumptions about our skills!! Neuroinclusive workplaces and communities are starting to shift away from “disclosure” to more person-centred terms.Let’s keep evolving how we speak—because the words we choose signal whether we’re inviting people in, or keeping systems shut.

In the realm of safeguarding and child protection, the term "disclosure" holds profound significance. It refers to the act of a child or vulnerable individual revealing information about abuse, neglect, or exploitation they have experienced or witnessed. The process of disclosure plays a pivotal role in identifying and addressing instances of harm, providing avenues for intervention, support, and justice. This essay aims to explore the multifaceted nature of disclosure within the context of safeguarding and child protection, examining its importance, challenges, and implications for effective intervention and prevention strategies. Disclosure represents a critical juncture in the safeguarding process, where victims or witnesses of abuse take the courageous step of sharing their experiences with trusted individuals or authorities. It can occur in various settings, including schools, healthcare facilities, social services, or within familial or community contexts. The act of disclosure often requires overcoming barriers such as fear, shame, guilt, or concerns about retaliation, emphasising the significance of creating safe and supportive environments where individuals feel empowered to speak out. For children and vulnerable individuals, the decision to disclose abuse or neglect can be fraught with uncertainty and vulnerability. They may fear disbelief, blame, or repercussions from perpetrators, complicating the disclosure process. Additionally, cultural, linguistic, or developmental factors may influence how individuals communicate their experiences, highlighting the importance of adopting sensitive and inclusive approaches to facilitate effective disclosure. Professionals working within safeguarding and child protection settings play a crucial role in facilitating disclosure and responding appropriately to reports of abuse or neglect. They must be trained to recognise signs of abuse, create trusting relationships with children and vulnerable individuals, and implement protocols for handling disclosures sensitively and ethically. Effective communication skills, active listening, and empathy are essential components of supporting individuals who disclose abuse or neglect. Professionals must prioritise the well-being and safety of the victim while adhering to legal and ethical obligations regarding confidentiality, reporting, and intervention. By fostering a culture of openness, trust, and non-judgemental support, professionals can encourage disclosures and initiate the necessary steps to safeguard individuals from further harm. Despite its critical importance, the disclosure of abuse or neglect can be fraught with challenges and complexities. Victims may experience hesitancy or reluctance to disclose due to fear of repercussions, distrust of authorities, or cultural norms that discourage speaking out about sensitive issues. Moreover, perpetrators may employ tactics such as intimidation, manipulation, or grooming to prevent disclosure or discredit victims' accounts. Additionally, the process of disclosing abuse or neglect may have significant emotional and psychological ramifications for victims, exacerbating feelings of trauma, anxiety, or distress. Therefore, it is essential to provide comprehensive support services, including counselling, advocacy, and access to medical and legal resources, to address the holistic needs of individuals who disclose abuse or neglect. Furthermore, professionals must navigate ethical dilemmas and legal obligations when responding to disclosures, balancing the rights and safety of the victim with considerations of due process and confidentiality. They must adhere to established safeguarding protocols, reporting requirements, and multidisciplinary collaboration frameworks to ensure a coordinated and effective response to disclosures of abuse or neglect. The process of disclosure serves as a critical catalyst for intervention, enabling authorities to initiate investigations, protect victims from further harm, and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions. Timely and appropriate responses to disclosures can prevent the escalation of abuse, mitigate its impact on victims, and promote healing and recovery. Moreover, effective safeguarding and prevention strategies must go beyond responding reactively to disclosures and focus on creating proactive measures to identify and mitigate risks of abuse or neglect. This includes implementing robust safeguarding policies and procedures, providing comprehensive training for professionals and caregivers, and promoting awareness and education within communities about the signs, impacts, and prevention of abuse. In conclusion, the term "disclosure" holds profound significance within the realm of safeguarding and child protection, representing the courageous act of individuals coming forward to share their experiences of abuse or neglect. Understanding the complexities and challenges inherent in the disclosure process is essential for professionals working within safeguarding settings to facilitate effective responses, support victims, and prevent further harm. By prioritising the creation of safe and supportive environments, implementing comprehensive safeguarding protocols, and promoting awareness and education, society can empower individuals to disclose abuse or neglect, facilitate intervention and support, and work towards preventing future instances of harm.

Put simply, a disclosure happens when: The adult communicates that they have been (or are worried they may be) abused or neglected; or Any other person reveals that they have seen an incident of abuse or neglect, or found evidence that indicates it may be, or is occurring. A disclosure can be verbal, but can also be written (for example a text, email or letter). A disclosure can relate to abuse that is happening now, may happen in the future or has happened in the past (historical).

For the purpose of this guidance, disclosure is defined as any occasion when an adult or child who has experienced or perpetrated domestic violence or abuse informs a health or social care worker or any other third party.