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Your workplace rights

It's your choice whether you tell someone about your disability.

If you think your disability requires some changes to your role, talk to your employer. This could include:

  • additional breaks
  • early or late finishes
  • different chairs and desks
  • extra time away from work for hospital appointments.

Remember, your employer should always support you with any reasonable adjustments and support via the Access to Work scheme.

Understanding your rights

Those with disabilities and long-term health conditions deserve workplace or reasonable adjustments to help them reach their full potential.

Watch this short animation video from the Equality and Human Rights Commission to explain your rights.

Your rights in the workplace transcript.

Employer support

Employers have to make reasonable adjustments if the workplace or working arrangements make it difficult for disabled people to get and keep a job (Section 20 of the Equality Act 2010).

To find out more:

Access to Work scheme

As well as reasonable adjustments, the Access to Work scheme is available too. Anyone over 16 with a physical, mental health condition or disability that makes it hard to do you job or get to work can apply.

The scheme can help to:

  • pay for communication support at job interviews
  • pay for practical support with your work
  • give you advice about managing your mental health at work
  • supply BSL interpreters, lip speakers or note takers
  • adapt your vehicle so you can get to work
  • pay for taxi fares or a support worker if you cannot use public transport
  • pay for a support worker or job coach to help you in your workplace.

Find out more about the Access to Work scheme and how it can support you.

Support at work

For additional support and advice, visit Scope's website.