At Dynamo Post16, we’re committed to helping you secure the vital support you need to request reasonable adjustments at the workplace and apply for the Access to Work (AtW) programme, so you can excel in your career without barriers.

1. What are Reasonable Adjustments at the Workplace?

Employers in the UK have a legal obligation to make reasonable adjustments in the workplace. These adjustments involve making changes to the work environment or working practices to accommodate the needs of individuals with disabilities, ensuring they are not disadvantaged. Reasonable adjustments are tailored to each person’s unique circumstances and can address both physical and mental health conditions.

Reasonable adjustment changes can include and are not limited to:

• Modifying the Work Environment: Installing ramps, adjustable desks, or other facilities to improve accessibility and mobility for employees with physical disabilities.
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Offering flexible working hours or remote work options to accommodate medical appointments or manage fluctuating health conditions.
• Specialised Equipment: Providing tools like screen readers or ergonomic equipment to help employees with visual impairments or physical limitations perform tasks effectively.
• Reallocating Job Tasks: Adjusting job responsibilities to better match an employee’s abilities, allowing them to contribute fully without undue strain.
• Support Services: Offering services such as counselling or sign language interpreters to meet specific needs, enhancing communication and mental well-being.

2. How to Make a Reasonable Adjustment Request?

If you need reasonable adjustments, it’s important to communicate your circumstances to your manager or employer (or potential employer if you’re applying for a job). This will help them understand how they can best support you.

3. Requirement of Evidence

Before requesting reasonable adjustments, it is important to explain your circumstances and adjustments required to your employer or prospective employer. You can do so by gathering evidence for your difficulty or assistance required, although this is not a requirement.

However, having an initial screening can strengthen your case when requesting adjustments or applying for Access to Work. Employers might assist with funding this assessment or include it as part of a Workplace Needs Assessment, this can help identify specific adjustments needed to support you at work. For example, in the case of specific learning difficulties, such as dyscalculia, this usually involves an initial screening or a diagnostic assessment. In a workplace context, such an assessment would typically be conducted by a qualified professional.

To assist you in obtaining the necessary evidence, Dynamo Post 16 offers comprehensive evidence-based screeners. You can purchase an initial Dynamo Post16 Dyscalculia Self-perception Questionnaire (DSPQ) here and your assessor can buy the comprehensive research and evidence-based Dynamo Post16 Dyscalculia Number Sense Profiler (DNSP) here.

4. What is Access to Work (AtW)?

Access to Work (AtW) is a UK government initiative that provides practical and financial support to individuals with disabilities or health conditions that affect their ability to work or commute. It’s important to note that this program is not a replacement for an employer’s legal duty to make reasonable adjustments or to cover the costs associated with them.

Eligibility:

• Age and Employment: You must be 16 years or older.
• Disability/Health Condition: You must have a disability or health condition that impacts your ability to work.
• Employment Status: You must be employed, self-employed, or have a confirmed job offer.
• Residency and Work Rights: You do not need to be a UK citizen, but you must be living in Great Britain and have the right to work in the UK.

If you’re not sure that you’re eligible, call the Access to Work helpline. You can find the details on the official website: https://www.gov.uk/access-to-work/eligibility

Learn more about the type of support you can receive at Access to Work.

The grant is specifically tailored to meet your individual needs and does not need to be repaid. While the grant offers valuable assistance, it complements—not replaces—the employer’s responsibility to make reasonable adjustments under the law.

5. Prepare and Submit Your Access to Work Application

To apply, you’ll need:

• Personal information (name, address, date of birth, National Insurance number).
• Employment details (employer’s name, address, and contact information).
• A clear understanding of how your condition impacts your job.
• Ideas on the type of support you might need.

You can easily apply online or by contacting the Access to Work helpline:

• Online: Complete your application on the government’s website: https://www.gov.uk/access-to-work/apply
• Helpline: Speak to an advisor at 0800 121 7479 (Textphone: 0800 121 7579).

6. What Happens Next?

After submitting your application, an Access to Work advisor will reach out to discuss your needs. They might request additional information or arrange an assessment to ensure you get the right support.

Once approved, you’ll receive a letter detailing your grant amount and what it covers. To claim, simply provide:

• Dates of support received
• Invoices or receipts
• Bank details for payment

You can submit your claim online or by post, or for any further assistance, visit the official website or contact the Access to Work helpline.

I am Karima Esmail, Co-founder of Dynamo Maths, an award-winning, research and evidence-based inclusive programme proven to support students with dyscalculia and those not meeting age-related expectations.

I have 15 years of experience as a senior lecturer at the University of Hertfordshire. More recently, I undertook research at University College London, which inspired the creation of Puffin Maths for the deaf and hard of hearing, which now provides access to the National Curriculum using British Sign Language (BSL). Puffin Maths was ‘Highly Commended’ at BETT 2022.

I have also co-authored Dynamo Post 14 Number Sense Profiler and Dyscalculia Self Perception Indicators Questionnaire.