26 Appendices Introduction Wellbeing Thematic analysis Applicant Index Report 2026 Disability Overall, 37% of applicants consider themselves to have a disability or health condition, compared with 35% in 2025. 20% 15% 10% 5% 0% Mental health condition Autism spectrum condition A long standing illness or health condition Physical impairment or mobility issues Sensory impairment Prefer not to say Specific learning difficulties ADHD 20 % 19 % 19 % 19 % 17 % 8 % 8 % 10 % 13 % 14 % 7 % 8 % 7 % 9 % 11 % 5 % 5 % 6 % 6 % 6 % 5 % 5 % 5 % 4 % 4 % 3 % 3 % 5 % 4 % 4 % 2 % 3 % 3 % 4 % 4 % 6 % 5 % 5 % 3 % 3 % Figure 21: Prevalence of disabilities and health conditions among applicants 2022-26 2023 2024 2025 2026 2022 Applicants reporting that they have an autism spectrum condition and/or ADHD continue to show signs of an upward trend, possibly linked to greater awareness and diagnoses of these conditions. However, what had appeared to be a downward trend in mental health conditions among applicants has stalled this year, with figures returning to their 2024 level. As in previous years, most applicants with disabilities have already disclosed, or plan to disclose, their condition. Only 14% do not intend to disclose, though rates are slightly higher among applicants with neurodivergent or mental health conditions, suggesting greater stigma and/or less trust that reasonable adjustments will be made. Belonging, equity and inclusion Back to contents