Reasonable Adjustments at Work

Please note: This post is based on UK experience, where laws protect people with disabilities from discrimination.

My managers have always been aware of my health conditions – fibromyalgia and CFS/ME – and my current manager (as of September 2024) also lives with fibromyalgia. This shared experience helps them better understand what I go through.

I’ve always tried to be honest – though not always perfectly – because I believe it’s the best way to ensure that my needs are understood. Sometimes, I need adjustments to help me manage my symptoms.

The challenge with chronic conditions like these is that they fluctuate, which makes it difficult to find consistent adjustments that always work.

Permanent changes such as an ergonomic mouse (they look a bit odd, but they really help by keeping your wrist comfortable), a supportive chair, or even a sit-stand desk may be available through your workplace as reasonable adjustments.

When symptoms flare, other accommodations might help. For instance, you could ask to work from home – or more frequently, if you’re already doing so. Working from home can reduce the stress, pain, and fatigue caused by commuting.

Last summer, I reduced my work hours by 10% during a bad flare-up. Over several months, I gradually increased them again, allowing my body to recover without pushing myself too hard too soon. I’m now just 1.5 hours under full-time hours again – something I didn’t think would be possible. It feels great. I’m hoping to return to full-time work in a few weeks, but it’s reassuring to know I can reduce my hours again if I experience another prolonged flare.

I no longer do any lifting at work and ask for help when something needs moving. This has been hard for me, as someone who likes to be the one others ask for help. But it’s essential to protect my health and avoid overdoing it.

If you work for a larger organisation, they may have an Occupational Health team that can meet with you and recommend adjustments to your manager. These can include changes to your work hours, ergonomic equipment, or specialist software to make your job more manageable.

Remember, your employer is legally required to make reasonable adjustments. However, they may consider some requests unreasonable if they significantly impact the organisation or prevent you from fulfilling the essential duties of your role. That said, they must listen to your concerns and accommodate reasonable requests. If you believe your needs aren’t being fairly considered, speak with your HR team or union representative. You also have legal protections if you feel you’ve been discriminated against due to your disability.

What adjustments have you found helpful?