Asperger Employee working in NHS. To disclose or not to disclose?

[BrainyMess]

I've been working in the same role in the NHS for many years.
I've recently been diagnosed with Aspergers. I am in my mid forties.

I've been trying to find an answer as to whether or not to disclose my Aspergers.

I have already sought advice from my union rep and staff advisor. Both had little experience of Aspergers.

Advice from HR people or managers in the NHS would be particularly welcome.

Thanks in Advance.

I'm not in the NHS, nor in HR, but my questions would be -

What has prompted you to get a diagnosis? Were you struggling at work?

If work will continue as normal, and you're performing well and not struggling, (at least, not struggling any more than anyone else in an NHS job is,) I don't think I'd disclose at this point.

If you have been struggling with work, and reasonable adjustments would make aspects of it easier for you, then I would disclose. Employers aren't expected to make reasonable adjustments for conditions that haven't been disclosed, on account of how can you take action over something you don't have any knowledge of?

Have you looked at the National Autistic Society's website? They have some support for employers and employees. www.autism.org.uk/working-with/support-for-employers.aspx

They also have a good practice guide for the NHS and local authorities here - www.autism.org.uk/About-autism/Our-publications/Reports/Our-good-practice-guides/Supporting-adults-with-autism-a-guide.aspx

One relevant factor could be if you have had any difficulties at work that sharing the diagnosis might help people to understand?

My daughter is 25 now and we discovered two years ago she has this condition. You would not know she had it and it does not effect her work in any way. It's only her close family and friends who realise something is amiss due to her erratic moods from time to time. I see no need for you to mention it unless of course you have some difficulties with work and need them to understand why so they can help

if you do decide you want to disclose think about at what point. e.g. do you think you need adjustments for the interview? if not maybe wait until you are offered the job if you feel that it would be in your interest /their interest for them to know so they can give you any necessary support.

doh-sorry didn't read your post properly-thought you were applying for new positions.
What ebearhug said-good advice.