Supporting colleagues with disabilities and long-term health conditions

As part of Sainsbury’s Disability Week 2025, hundreds of our managers came together for a panel discussion on how to better support colleagues with disabilities and long-term health conditions. Hosted by Mark Gabriel, Director of Stores- Central Zone and Sponsor of the EnAble Network, and Miriam Earley, Head of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Wellbeing, the session was a powerful reminder of what inclusive leadership really looks like in practice.

Mark opened the session by highlighting that leadership isn’t static, it’s something we grow into every day. It requires constant improvement, ongoing learning, and a commitment to showing up better than we did yesterday. That spirit of continuous growth set the tone for a conversation rich in lived experience and practical advice.

The panel featured Sainsbury’s Matt Galloway, Simon Marshall-Wilson, Jay Lee, Tim Maginnis, and Natalie Lester, Head of Practice at the Business Disability Forum – who all shared generous contributions about their own personal journeys and valuable insights that we can all learn from.

Jay brought a manager’s lens to the conversation, sharing the story of one of our incredible colleagues, Susan, who lived with fibromyalgia and arthritis. When opening this new store, Jay made sure that there was a role there for Susan in an environment that would suit her: “We adjusted the cash office, gave her flexible hours, and most importantly - we listened. She’s independent, capable, and just needed the right support to thrive.”

Simon, a People Partner, highlighted the importance of open conversations. “We need to create spaces where people feel safe to speak up.” He also stressed the role of coaching and resources: “Managers don’t have to know everything. But they do need to know where to go for help.” One of his most memorable pieces of advice was: “Start with a yes and work from there.” It’s a mindset that encourages possibility, flexibility, and trust.

Bringing her expertise from the Business Disability Forum, Natalie addressed the broader challenges in our industry. “In retail, we often focus on customer accessibility - but what about our colleagues? We need to look at employee areas too.” She also encouraged managers to shift their focus: “Don’t get stuck on the condition. Focus on the barriers. That’s where meaningful support starts.” Natalie also reminded us of the importance of confidentiality and compassion: “These conversations are personal. They need to be handled with care.”

The panel closed with some suggestions for small changes can make a big difference. Tim offered two simple but powerful suggestions if someone is sharing with you that they’re living with a disability or long-term health condition: “Don’t underestimate a pause and a reflect. Avoid saying ‘I know someone else with that,’ even though you might be searching for something to say.” He added, “I know it’s difficult to ask questions, but I’d rather someone ask questions - because it’s showing you care and you’re trying to understand.”

Whether it’s adjusting a shift pattern, checking in more regularly, or simply asking, “How can I help?”- these moments of care and curiosity are what inclusive leadership looks like in practice.

As Mark reminds us, “It’s about people, not just policies.” And during Sainsbury’s Disability Week, that message couldn’t have been more timely. With the right mindset, every manager can help build a workplace where everyone feels seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.

Susan’s name has been changed to protect her privacy.