Support and help at work

The right to reasonable adjustments

If someone has an illness or disability, they have a right to reasonable adjustments during the recruitment and interview process, and at work. Employers must make reasonable adjustments to make sure an employee is not disadvantaged when doing their job. This is to protect from potential discrimination.

During the application and interview process

A reasonable adjustment might be that the employer must provide documents in alternative formats, such as larger font, braille or audio CDs. During an interview, an employer is only allowed to ask your young person questions about health or any disability, if they are asking about any 'reasonable adjustments' your young person may require.

At work

In terms of reasonable adjustments to the job, this may be a specialist piece of equipment or support that your young person requires to do their job.

For example, an employer might need to provide:

An adjustable desk
A specialist chair
A specialist keyboard, screen or mouse
A signer
A disabled parking space nearby
Changes to premises. For example, moving furniture, lowering shelving or putting in a ramp
Regular breaks
Flexible working hours
A different job or amending some duties

Legal protection

Employees and job seekers with disabilities, are legally protected against discrimination under the Equality Act 2010.

Disability-friendly employers

Some employers are happy to employ disabled people. Find employers who have signed up the Department of Work and Pensions' (DWP) Disability Confident scheme.

Skills and Employment Team (SET)

Our Skills and Employment Team (SET) supports employers to recruit people over the age of 18 who are open to Adult Social Services. They also provide resources and support for employers.

Government schemes

The government runs two schemes that may help your young person:

Access to Work. This scheme helps pay towards special equipment, support at work or travelling expenses. You may find the DWP easy read guide to Access to Work helpful
Work and Health programme. The programme offers personal support and advice to help your young person find suitable work, and help to keep them working. Find your local Jobcentre Plus on GOV.UK and speak to them about the programme.