Not declaring disabilities/health issues: did anyone else do this?

At school and University, I was given very good help with a condition I have. I chose not to put it down on the form this time however, as I was worried that they'd see it and instantly decide for me that I wouldn't manage. I was just wondering if anyone else has chosen not to include details about special needs/ disabilities?

Also, I just want to check that it IS a choice whether you tell them or not, right?

Re: Did anyone else do this?

I haven't put down anything about being bi-polar because as far as I see it, it's only if you "consider" yourself to have a disability. Whereas it may have stopped me engaging with day-to-day life in the past, I have good coping strategies now

Re: Did anyone else do this?

The only reason they need to know about illnesses and disabilities is if they might affect your work, or if your work might affect them (for example, if you've got a back problem then they need to know about it so that you won't have to do things that would make it worse). They would not be allowed to reject you outright because of an illness and if it wasn't going affect your ability to be a good midwife then it would make no difference as far as I know

Re: Did anyone else do this?

It isn't a serious condition. To simplify it, it's basically just aches and pains in my joints, mainly my hands. It used to be a lot worse a few years ago, but now I'll just get the odd day if the weather's bad. I used to get extra time in exams and stuff at school and that, but because it's a lot better, I figured it wouldn't matter not saying. I know they're not allowed to judge you based on disabilities, but it still does happen, so I thought I can guarantee a fair chance if I say nothing. Am I making sense? Do you understand where I'm coming from?

Re: Did anyone else do this?

I get you- but if you get a place, I still thinkyou should disclose it for occy health checks, hon.

Re: Did anyone else do this?

you must tell them if you get a place...occy health info is confidential and only between you and the occy health team unless they get your permission to disclose.

The interview panel should not know specifics unless you tell them...which is all up to you.
If you consider yourself to have a disability however minor you think it is...you must disclose 'yes'.
The law should protect you from discrimination, the uni will have to tread very carefully....!

Re: Did anyone else do this?

I would tell them. Your GP has to sign you as fit so even if you don't tell them, your GP might. However, whether you class it as a disability or not is different. I am sure you can tell them about health conditions without classing it as a disability - I told them of my history of depression and that I am still on medication. But I don't class myself as disabled.

Re: Did anyone else do this?

A few months/weeks before you start your course you will be sent forms to fill in. Amongst these will be a form to be completed by your GP in which he/she will have to state any medical conditions you suffer from and any medication you are on. He will have to say whether he feels you are/are not fit to start the course. Witholding information, imho, can only work to your detriment in the long run.