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Reasonable adjustments

What is meant by a reasonable adjustment?

By making what are often simple adjustments, employers are usually able to create a workplace that eliminates disadvantages for people with a disability. This could, for example, be by removing physical barriers or providing extra support, facilities or technology for a disabled worker or job applicant. Some disabled people might not need or want adjustments, although please bear in mind this might change over time.

Reasonable adjustments are by their very nature personal and designed to meet the needs of an individual.

There are of course some legal responsibilities for employers to provide required adjustments, but they don’t always have to be major changes and if in doubt talk to us and we can advise you of the best way forward for you and your employee. 

Here are some examples of reasonable adjustments:

Physical Adjustments:

  • Workplace modifications: Providing accessible workstations, ramps, or lifts.
  • Equipment adjustments: Adapting equipment or tools to suit the employee's needs.
  • Adjustments to working hours or breaks: Allowing flexible working hours or additional breaks.

Someone going up a ramp in their wheelchair.

Communication Adjustments:

  • Assistive technology: Providing equipment such as hearing aids, text-to-speech software, or braille readers.
  • Communication support: Employing a sign language interpreter or providing written instructions.
  • Reasonable adjustments to training: Providing training in accessible formats or with additional support.

A lady doing sign language.

Working Environment Adjustments:

  • Flexible working arrangements: Allowing part-time work, job sharing, or working from home.
  • Reduced workload: Adjusting the employee's workload to accommodate their limitations.
  • Mentorship or support: Providing mentoring or support from a colleague or supervisor.

Two girls chatting and writing notes.

Other Adjustments:

  • Travel adjustments: Providing accessible transportation or adjusting travel arrangements.
  • Accommodation adjustments: Providing accessible accommodation or making modifications to existing accommodation.
  • Workplace policies: Reviewing and adjusting workplace policies to ensure they are inclusive of disabled employees.

Someone who has a modified vehicle for their disability.

It's important to note that reasonable adjustments should be made on an individual basis, taking into account the specific needs of the employee and the nature of their disability.