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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 young people with disabilities, mental health issues and autism. They also provide resources and support for employers.

Government schemes 

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