Reasonable adjustments are changes or modifications made to accommodate individuals with disabilities or other protected characteristics. The purpose of these adjustments is to ensure that individuals are not disadvantaged in the workplace due to their circumstances.
The law states that we must make reasonable adjustments when someone has a disability.
Why are reasonable adjustments important?
- Enhanced Productivity: Adjustments enable employees to perform at their best, maximizing their potential and productivity.
- Employee Engagement: Demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity and valuing all employees leads to increased job satisfaction and engagement.
- Retention and Attraction: Creating an inclusive workplace culture helps retain diverse talent and attract new candidates.
- Legal Compliance: Fulfilling legal obligations under the Equality Act
Types of reasonable adjustment
- Flexible Working: adjusted working hours, part-time work, or working from home
- Physical Modifications: Installing ramps, or accessible bathroom facilities to improve accessibility.
- Assistive Technology: Offering screen readers, voice recognition software
• Allocation of Duties: Adjusting job responsibilities to match an employee’s abilities or providing additional support if required.
- Communication Adjustments: Providing written materials in alternative formats (e.g., large print, braille, easy read)
What ‘reasonable’ means
What is reasonable depends on each situation. As a manager, you must consider carefully if the adjustment:
- will remove or reduce the disadvantage – you should talk with the person and not make assumptions
- is practical to make
- is affordable
- could harm the health and safety of others
Find out more about reasonable adjustments
Implementing reasonable adjustments
Key points following implementation of a reasonable adjustment:
- Regular Review: continuously assess and review the effectiveness of adjustments to ensure they meet an individual’s evolving needs.
- Documentation: Maintain records of the adjustments made, including the communication, assessments, and outcomes.
- Confidentiality: Respect the privacy and confidentiality of individuals when discussing their needs and adjustments.
