An opinion piece in The Citizen explores how some fitting benefits emerge when society rethinks “special needs.” What starts as policy around disability badges or fast-queue access begins conversations about visibility, dignity and inclusion. Conditions not always visible—such as mental health or chronic pain—raise questions about fairness and authenticity of access.
By Jennie Ridyard – The Citizen
The author reflects on how societal norms of who “qualifies” shape inclusion. When access programs assume certain diagnoses or visible markers, they risk excluding those whose needs aren’t obvious but who face daily barriers. The piece urges recognition of diverse disability experiences.
There’s also a critique of how regulation and oversight are essential. Without robust systems to ensure that support programs reach the right people, their legitimacy—and the trust public sets in them—can erode. Producers and consumers of such programmes must guard against misuse while protecting genuine need.
Ultimately, the piece argues for policies grounded in empathy, not just compliance. Social responsibility means recognising that inclusion isn’t binary. It’s about adjusting how we define and respond to need so that people aren’t marginalised for what’s unseen.
