What are reasonable adjustments?
Reasonable adjustments within recruitment remove barriers ensuring all candidates can be assessed on their capability and not their circumstances.
This is all about equity, not advantage.
- Removing obstacles that prevent a candidate from demonstrating their true ability
- Creating a level playing field across different needs and working styles
- Ensuring hiring decisions are based on merit, not process limitations
As an employer, it is your responsibility to anticipate the potential barriers and to mitigate these to ensure a fair and equal recruitment process.
You can define ‘reasonable’ by asking…
- Is this adjustment feasible within our hiring process?
- Is this adjustment proportionate to the resources we have?
- How does this effectively enhance our hiring process?
Why does this matter?
- Over 70% of candidates consider diversity and inclusion when choosing where to apply
- Neurodivergent individuals make up an estimated 15–20% of the population
Organisations with inclusive hiring practices consistently report stronger retention and performance outcomes
Under the Equality Act 2010, UK companies must make reasonable adjustments throughout their employment process and failure to do so can result in a discrimination case.
Alongside the legalities, guidance from bodies such as the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) emphasises the importance of:
- Removing systemic barriers
- Embedding inclusive practices, rather than handling adjustments on a case-by-case basis alone
- Ensuring fairness and consistency across hiring decisions
So, what does reasonable adjustments look like in the workplace?
Application Stage
- Providing application forms in alternative formats (e.g. accessible PDFs, larger text)
- Allowing video or audio submissions instead of written responses where appropriate
- Extending application deadlines if required
- Ensuring job descriptions use clear, inclusive language
Interview Stage
- Offering virtual, in-person, or hybrid interview options
- Allowing extra time for responses or assessments
- Adjusting lighting, noise levels, or environment where possible
Reasonable adjustments are not to be seen as complicated or expensive, they’re usually straight-forward, cost-free changes which can have a significant impact on those applying to join your business.
If you’re currently growing your team and need assistance with your recruitment, get in touch!
This blog is not to be seen as legal advice but information to make your hiring process better.
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