A new report by the National Association of Disabled Staff Networks (NADSN) emphasizes the need for better support for disabled individuals in science to prevent dropout rates.
Only 6.4% of individuals in science have a disability, with 4% at senior academic positions, highlighting a significant underrepresentation.
Issues faced by disabled scientists range from digital problems to physical concerns like accessibility and workplace attitudes.
The report aims to reform science to be fully inclusive by addressing culture, physical and digital environments, and funding.
Short-term goals include recognizing barriers, improving manager training, and fostering allyship in the workplace.
Medium- and long-term goals involve holding organizations accountable for toxic cultures and advocating for changes in equality law to address discrimination.
The report stresses the importance of implementing changes and listening to disabled voices for a paradigm shift in disability inclusion in science.
Francesca Doddato from Lancaster University highlights the significance of addressing physical issues and toxic workplace cultures in science.
The report calls for proactive measures to create an inclusive environment where disabled individuals feel supported and valued in scientific fields.
It emphasizes the need for a change in societal attitudes towards disabilities and promoting a more inclusive and equitable scientific community.