Reasonable Adjustments Quick Reference Guide: 50+ common reasonable adjustments by condition
The Equality Act 2010 imposes an obligation on employers to make ‘reasonable adjustments’ to help disabled employees remain in work, if their disability puts them at a disadvantage compared with non-disabled colleagues.
"Thank you for coming in today, [Name]. Please, take a seat and make yourself comfortable. I want to start by saying that this is a supportive conversation, not a disciplinary meeting, and everything we discuss will be treated confidentially."
"I've asked you here because our records show you've had [X] separate absences over the past [timeframe], which has reached our review trigger point. I want to understand what's been happening and see how we can support you."
Mental Health Conditions
Depression/Anxiety
• Flexible start/finish times to avoid rush hour stress
• Regular check-ins with line manager (weekly/fortnightly)
• Quiet workspace away from high-traffic areas
• Written instructions rather than verbal-only briefings
• Permission to take short breaks when overwhelmed
• Cost: £0-£200 | Implementation: 1-2 weeks
ADHD/Concentration Difficulties
• Noise-cancelling headphones or quiet workspace
• Task lists broken into smaller, manageable chunks
• Regular movement breaks (every 45-60 minutes)
• Digital reminders and calendar alerts
• Reduced open-plan distractions
• Cost: £50-£300 | Implementation: Immediate-1 week
Physical/Mobility Conditions
Back Pain/Musculoskeletal Issues
• Height-adjustable desk and ergonomic chair
• Laptop stand and external keyboard/mouse
• Regular posture breaks and movement reminders
• Parking space closer to building entrance
• Lifting restrictions and manual handling exemptions
• Cost: £200-£800 | Implementation: 1-2 weeks
Chronic Fatigue/Fibromyalgia
• Compressed working week (4 longer days vs. 5 shorter)
• Flexible hours to match energy levels
• Rest area for short breaks during the day
• Reduced travel requirements
• Phased return after flare-ups
• Cost: £0-£500 | Implementation: 2-4 weeks
Sensory Impairments
Visual Impairments
• Screen reading software and voice recognition
• Large monitor or screen magnification tools
• Adjustable lighting and anti-glare screens
• Clear pathways and obstacle-free workspace
• Audio versions of written materials
• Cost: £200-£2,000 | Implementation: 1-3 weeks
Hearing Impairments
• Video calls with automatic captions
• Visual alerts instead of audio notifications
• Loop systems for meetings
• Written meeting summaries and action points
• BSL interpreter for important meetings
• Cost: £100-£1,500 per meeting | Implementation: 1-4 weeks
Pregnancy-Related Conditions
Morning Sickness/Fatigue
• Later start times during first trimester
• Frequent food/drink breaks
• Well-ventilated workspace away from food smells
• Flexible lunch arrangements
• Permission to attend appointments without leave deduction
• Cost: £0-£100 | Implementation: Immediate
Physical Discomfort (Later Pregnancy)
• Supportive seating with lumbar cushions
• Frequent position changes and movement breaks
• Workstation at comfortable height
• Reduced standing/walking requirements
• Closer parking or transport arrangements
• Cost: £50-£300 | Implementation: 1 week
Chronic Health Conditions
Diabetes
• Regular meal breaks at consistent times
• Private area for blood sugar monitoring/medication
• Flexible schedule around medical appointments
• Access to refrigeration for medication storage
• Understanding around emergency medical needs
• Cost: £0-£200 | Implementation: Immediate
Epilepsy
• Reduced exposure to flashing lights/screens
• Buddy system for safety during tasks
• Flexible hours to manage medication timing
• Clear protocols for seizure response
• Stress reduction measures
• Cost: £0-£500 | Implementation: 1-2 weeks
Remember: The best adjustments are often the simplest ones. Ask the employee what would help most. They usually know exactly what they need.
