Supporting Invisible Disabilities Week at Croda

What is Invisible Disabilities Week?

Invisible Disabilities Week is an annual campaign held to raise awareness about hidden disabilities, like chronic pain, mental health disorders, and neurological conditions. It aims to educate, promote understanding, and foster inclusive environments for those whose conditions are not visible, helping to reduce stigma and build support in workplaces, schools, and communities.

Sana Bell, Community Engagement Coordinator

We are proud to share a personal story from one of our team members, Sana Bell, Community Engagement Coordinator at our Atlas Point site in North America.

Sana’s journey with Sjögren’s Syndrome highlights not only her resilience but also Croda’s dedication to creating a workplace where invisible disabilities are recognised and supported. Here is Sana’s story:

“Living with an invisible disability often means navigating a world where despite facing real and sometimes severe challenges, you hear phrases like ‘but you don’t look sick’. As someone who lives with Sjögren’s Syndrome—a systemic rheumatic disease that affects moisture-producing glands and brings symptoms like dry eyes, fatigue, joint pain, and dysautonomia, I understand the complexities of living with an illness that isn’t always visible.

“There are days when not looking sick feels like a blessing. I have the freedom to choose when and with whom to share my condition. But on other days, I face judgement from strangers, like when I park in a disabled space, and people don’t see the pain I’m in or realise my blood pressure is dangerously low. They don’t know that even something as simple as standing for too long could cause me to pass out, or that a rib slipping out of place makes every breath a struggle.

“That’s why this Invisible Disabilities Awareness Week is so important—to shed light on the realities of those whose challenges aren’t obvious, and I’m grateful to work at a company that not only recognises but actively supports individuals like me.”

Sana says “Croda’s commitment to inclusivity has been vital” in her own journey, saying: “For the past three years, I’ve received monthly infusions to manage my condition. Even on infusion weeks, Croda offers me the flexibility to manage my workload. Whether I’m checking emails from home or taking a much-needed rest, I’m able to balance my health needs with my professional responsibilities.

“Thanks to the hybrid work model, I can stay comfortable while working remotely — wearing soft clothes or using muscle creams for my joint pain without worry. When I’m in the office, my sit/stand desk helps me prevent stiffness, and no one bats an eye if I need to use a heating pad to ease my discomfort.

“I feel incredibly fortunate to have a supportive personal network and a workplace that understands my situation.”

Croda's commitment to inclusivity

At Croda, we understand that a diverse, inclusive workplace isn’t just about accommodating those with visible needs. It’s about being sensitive and supportive to all forms of diversity, including the invisible challenges that many employees face every day. This mindset is woven into Croda’s values, which focus on our people and their wellbeing.

Invisible Disabilities Awareness Week is an opportunity for us to highlight the importance of recognising and supporting those living with conditions that may not be immediately apparent. It’s a reminder that inclusivity goes beyond what we can see and involves building a culture where everyone feels understood and respected.

At Croda, we are more than a business, we’re a community. Our commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace for all our employees is central to who we are, and we’ll continue to champion the causes that make us a better, stronger company.

We are proud to stand by our people, empowering them to succeed and grow, no matter the obstacles they face.