Ysabel Hardy

My name is Ysabel Hardy, and I am an Audit Apprentice at KPMG. I live with a chronic health condition called endometriosis – a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows elsewhere in the body. For me, the most challenging symptom is debilitating pain, which can be unpredictable and, at times, overwhelming.

I joined KPMG in October 2021, and since then my journey has been one of both professional growth and personal resilience. I have completed my AAT Level 3 in Bookkeeping and my AAT Level 4 Diploma in Accounting, and I am now just one exam away from qualifying as a Level 7 ICAEW Chartered Accountant. Progressing through these milestones alongside managing a chronic condition has not always been easy, but it has been incredibly rewarding.

From the outset, I chose to be open about my health condition during the recruitment process. I knew that I would need time away from work for hospital appointments and, at times, surgery. While it was daunting to share something so personal, I felt reassured by KPMG’s reputation for fostering an inclusive and supportive culture. That trust was quickly reinforced. KPMG arranged an occupational health assessment, where I was able to discuss the barriers I face at work and the adjustments that could help me perform at my best. These recommendations were shared with the firm and implemented without hesitation.

Having these adjustments in place has made a significant difference. They have enabled me to work to the best of my ability, knowing that my health condition does not define my potential or limit my progression. Importantly, these adjustments are reviewed regularly, ensuring that I continue to receive the right level of support as my circumstances evolve.

KPMG also actively encourages its people to speak up when they need help. Since sharing my condition with my performance leader, I have felt genuinely supported. She regularly checks in with me, not only to see how I am coping, but to ask whether there is anything further the firm can do to support me. These open, honest conversations have created an environment where I feel comfortable raising concerns as they arise.

I have also been involved with KPMG’s Workability network, which focuses on disability and health inclusion. Through this network, I contributed to the ‘This Is Me’ initiative – an opportunity for colleagues to anonymously share their experiences of living with a health condition at work. Writing about endometriosis in this way was empowering. It allowed me, and others, to raise awareness, challenge misconceptions, and remind people that not all challenges are visible.

Living with a chronic condition has taught me resilience and determination. Even on days when I am in significant pain, I continue to push forward, committed to doing my best. My condition may not always be visible, but my ambition is. From the very beginning, I made a promise to myself that endometriosis would not prevent me from achieving my career goals – and with the support and encouragement I receive at KPMG, I know that it won’t.

My advice to anyone with a disability or health condition navigating a recruitment process – whether for an apprenticeship, graduate role, or any job – is to be open about the barriers you face. I understand how intimidating that can feel; my own fear was that honesty might cost me the opportunity. In reality, the opposite was true. Being open from the start allows employers to put adjustments in place that make work more accessible, sustainable, and enjoyable. No one should feel ashamed of something beyond their control. The focus should always be on how the right support can enable you to thrive.