If you do not make adjustments

Disability is one of 9 protected characteristics covered by discrimination law (Equality Act 2010).

If you do not make reasonable adjustments, you could face a disability discrimination claim at an employment tribunal. Act quickly and get legal advice when needed to stay compliant and fair.

You’re not expected to make adjustments that are unreasonable. But, by law, you must look for other ways to support disabled workers and help them do their jobs well.

Find out about your legal obligations as an employer on the ACAS website.

How to decide what is reasonable

You should base what’s reasonable on the individual’s needs, and consider:

• effectiveness – will the change reduce the disadvantage?
• practicality – can you make the change easily?
• cost – is it affordable?
• health and safety – will it affect other people’s safety or wellbeing?
• support available – are there funding schemes that can help pay for it?

If you’re unsure whether an adjustment will work, trial it where possible. By testing changes, you show fairness, support your workers and meet your legal duties.