When It’s Invisible — But Still Real

By Char, Co-Founder of NeuroEmpowered Leicester CIC

The Access Card Arrived — And It Hit Me

Today, my renewed Access Card arrived.

It’s a small thing — just a card — but it quietly says so much about a life that most people don’t see. On the front, it states that I:

May struggle with queueing
Might require a companion (+1) for support
Need urgent access to a toilet when required

To many, these things might seem minor or simple. But for me — and for so many others — they represent daily challenges that aren’t obvious to the outside world.

They speak to the effort it takes just to function in spaces that aren’t designed for people like us.

The Reality of Invisible Disabilities

I live with invisible disabilities.

I am neurodivergent, and I have multiple co-occurring physical and mental health conditions. On the surface, I might look like I’m coping. I might smile or laugh, chat, and carry on like everything’s fine.

But what most people don’t see is the huge amount of energy it takes to “mask” my needs. To avoid judgement or misunderstanding. To try not to make anyone else uncomfortable — even when I’m uncomfortable all the time.

Getting an Access Card isn’t something you can just request casually. It takes evidence. It takes explanations. It takes sharing deeply personal experiences, just to be allowed a little bit of grace and understanding in public spaces.

And even with the card in my hand, I still find myself feeling like I have to explain myself. To prove I really need what the card says I do. To justify my needs. To defend my existence.

When You Wish It Was Visible

Sometimes, I wish the world could just see what I go through.

That if my conditions were visible — like a broken leg or a mobility aid — people might respond with compassion instead of confusion. With understanding instead of judgement.

But then again, there are moments I feel grateful that I can blend in. That I can choose invisibility when I need to. That I can pass, even if it costs me more energy than anyone realises.

It’s complicated. It’s exhausting. It’s a constant balancing act.

Why We Created NeuroEmpowered

This is why we created NeuroEmpowered Leicester CIC.

Because there are so many people like me — like us — living with invisible disabilities.

People who don’t “look” like they need help, but are fighting daily battles no one can see.

People who deserve compassion and access, without being questioned. People who are trying their absolute hardest, even if it doesn’t always look like it.

We didn’t just want to create resources. We wanted to create empathy. We wanted to build a community where people feel safe being honest about what they’re going through.

Matt — the other co-founder of NeuroEmpowered — was also diagnosed as neurodivergent later in life. He, too, lives with co-occurring physical and mental health conditions. He has an Access Card for his own needs, including difficulties with queuing, and a Carer’s Card to support me when I need it.

It’s complicated — and it’s messy — but it’s also so common.

That’s why we do this. Because we live it. Because we understand.

You Don’t Owe Anyone Proof

This post is me being open.

Saying:

“I get it. If you’re tired of defending yourself… if you wish people just knew… if you feel guilty asking for the help you need — you’re not alone.”

You are seen. You are valid. You matter.

💬 We Want to Hear Your Story Too

At NeuroEmpowered, we believe lived experience is powerful — and we want to create space for more voices like yours.

📣 If this post resonated with you, we’d love to hear your story. You can share your thoughts with us via email, or even send in a blog post of your own. Let’s build a platform that speaks for all of us — honestly, vulnerably, and unapologetically.

🧡 If you would like to know more about applying for an Access Card, please click here

🧡 Explore all of our free resource guides (including applying for PIP, Adult Social Care Support, and CEA cards here)

🧡 Follow us on X and Facebook

🧡 Or just reach out — we're listening @ info@neuroempowered.org

With solidarity, Char Co-Founder, NeuroEmpowered Leicester CIC