What is meant by reasonable?

Multipage Guide

Who is this page for?

  • Employees

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      England

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      Scotland

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      Wales

Your employer only has to do what is reasonable.

Various factors influence whether a particular adjustment is considered reasonable. The test of what is reasonable is ultimately an objective test and not simply a matter of what you or your employer may personally think is reasonable.

When deciding whether an adjustment is reasonable an employer can consider:

  • how effective the change will be in avoiding the disadvantage you would otherwise experience
  • its practicality
  • the cost
  • their organisation's resources and size
  • the availability of financial support.

Your employer's overall aim should be, as far as possible, to remove or reduce any substantial disadvantage faced by you as a worker which would not be faced by a non-disabled person.

Last updated: 21 Nov 2019

Further information

If you think you might have been treated unfairly and want further advice, you can contact the Equality Advisory and Support Service.

Phone: 0808 800 0082

You can email using the contact form on the EASS website.

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Alternatively, you can visit our advice and guidance page.