Looking for work is not an easy process. If you have an RSI, you may face additional problems to those faced by other job seekers. One issue is whether to tell an employer you have an RSI condition and at what stage it is best to disclose this information.
There are valid reasons both for and against disclosing that you have an RSI. As RSI can be a contentious term, if you have a particular condition you may prefer to call it by its real name e.g. carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, or describe it specifically as arm pain, shoulder injury etc.
This factsheet is largely based upon disability employment information from Skill, but also draws on experience of careers counselling for people with an RSI. You can take further advice from careers services (local providers or private companies), your college or university if you are a student, or from the Disability Employment Adviser (DEA) at the local Jobcentre if you are unemployed.
Additional Information on disclosing RSI
Advice & Research
Advice
H&S Legislation
Health & Saftey at Work 1974
DSE Regulations 1992
Manual Handling 1992
Workplace Regulations 1992
Reporting of Injuries
Work Equipment Regulations 1998
H&S Regulations 1999
Protective Equipment at Work 1992
Benefits
Income Support
Incapacity Benefit
Disability LIving Allowance
Industrial Injuries Disability Benefits
Council Tax Reduction Scheme
Disabled Persons Tax Credit
Employment Rights
Disclosing RSI to your Employer
Research
Research Index
Specific Research
Bruce Lynn & Jane Greening
Robens Institute for Health Ergonomics
Health & Safety Executive
EU-OSHA
Adam Ward
What is RSI - Conditions & RSI - Treatment & Managing RSI - RSI Hazards - Minimising Risks