1.2 Explain how the duty to make reasonable adjustments impacts on an individual accessing or engaging in education, training and employment

This guide will help you answer 1.2 Explain how the duty to make reasonable adjustments impacts on an individual accessing or engaging in education, training and employment.

The obligation to make reasonable adjustments ensures that barriers preventing individuals from accessing or engaging in education, training, or employment are addressed. This legal duty primarily stems from the Equality Act 2010, which seeks to create equal opportunities for all, regardless of disability or other differences. In this guide, we cover a range of reasonable adjustments and its real-world impacts.

What Are Reasonable Adjustments?

Reasonable adjustments are changes or modifications made by education providers, training organisations, or employers to enable individuals with disabilities or other needs to fully participate. Barriers may include physical obstacles, inaccessible materials, or discriminatory practices.

Examples of reasonable adjustments include:

• Providing specialised equipment, such as screen readers for visually impaired individuals.
• Adjusting working hours or schedules for someone with chronic fatigue.
• Offering staff training to improve understanding of additional needs, such as autism.

The aim is to remove or minimise any disadvantage an individual might face compared to others.

Legal Framework: Equality Act 2010

The Equality Act 2010 mandates that organisations must take active steps to accommodate individual needs wherever it is reasonable to do so. This applies to:

• Employers.
• Education providers (e.g., schools, colleges, universities).
• Training organisations.
• Service providers offering work placements or apprenticeships.

The Act identifies three core duties:

1. Changing the way things are done: This includes revising rules, policies, or practices. For instance, a training course might replace written exams with oral assessments for individuals with dyslexia.
2. Altering physical spaces: This could involve installing ramps, widening doorways, or providing accessible toilet facilities.
3. Providing auxiliary aids or services: Examples include sign language interpreters or assistive software.

A failure to comply with this duty can lead to claims of discrimination.

Impact on Education

Reasonable adjustments can significantly improve individual access and engagement in education. If properly implemented, they ensure that no student is left behind due to their needs.

Examples in Practice

• Physical Disabilities: Schools may install lifts or ramps for students using wheelchairs, allowing access to all areas of the building.
• Learning Differences: Colleges might offer extra time during exams or create resources in alternative formats, such as braille or large print, for students with reading difficulties.
• Mental Health Needs: Universities may allow flexible attendance policies for individuals experiencing anxiety or depression, helping them complete their studies.

Impacts include increased attendance, improved outcomes, and higher levels of confidence among learners.

Impact on Training

Training environments, particularly vocational programmes, are required to accommodate different abilities to create fair opportunities for skill-building.

Examples in Practice

• Training providers may allocate additional time to complete apprenticeships for learners with processing difficulties.
• Tutors or coaches may offer one-to-one mentorship for those needing extra support.
• Employers hosting work-based training might modify duties to make tasks more manageable.

This ensures learners can develop professionally without being excluded due to their limitations.

Impact on Employment

In the workplace, the duty to make reasonable adjustments is a cornerstone of inclusion. Employers benefit by attracting and retaining a diverse workforce.

Examples in Practice

• Providing accessible equipment, such as height-adjustable desks, ensures individuals with mobility issues can work comfortably.
• Offering flexible working hours allows employees with medical appointments or fluctuating conditions to manage their responsibilities.
• Remote working options may support those with mental health conditions who struggle with commutes or crowded office spaces.

Impacts are clear: individuals who receive appropriate adjustments are more likely to succeed, stay employed, and contribute effectively.

Challenges Organisations May Face

While the law is clear on the obligation to make reasonable adjustments, organisations may face practical or financial constraints in implementing them. Employers and institutions must:

• Assess what is “reasonable” based on the organisation’s size, resources, and context.
• Think creatively about solutions and consult the individual about their needs.

Although cost can be a factor, schemes such as Access to Work help employers by funding adjustments for employees with disabilities.

Encouraging Open Communication

Communication between the organisation and the individual is crucial when implementing adjustments. Individuals are much more likely to succeed if they feel heard and supported.

Here are some tips for encouraging positive discussions:

• Hold regular reviews for those already in education, training, or employment to discuss potential adjustments.
• Create a non-judgmental environment where individuals can comfortably disclose their needs.
• Involve specialists, like Occupational Health, when identifying suitable adjustments.

Broader Benefits of Adjustments

Reasonable adjustments benefit not only individuals but also organisations and society. They:

• Increase workforce diversity and inclusion.
• Lead to better performance and satisfaction among employees or learners.
• Reduce absenteeism or early dropout rates.
• Promote equality and combat discrimination.

When an organisation is committed to applying reasonable adjustments, it fosters a positive reputation and builds trust.

Final Thoughts

The duty to make reasonable adjustments transforms opportunities for individuals facing barriers to education, training, and employment. By addressing physical, cognitive, and social challenges, these modifications create an environment where everyone has the chance to thrive.

Understanding and acting on this duty is fundamental to ensuring fairness and equality for all.