If you have suffered an injury during your service which impacts your work then it is important to understand your rights and what your employer is required to do for you.
You are considered disabled under the Equality Act 2010 if you have a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long term negative effect on your ability to do normal daily activities. Long term means 12 months or more.
It is against the law for employers to discriminate against you because you have a disability.
The Equality Act 2010 protects you against discrimination at work in the following areas:
- Application forms
- Interview arrangements
- Aptitude tests
- Job offers
- Terms of employment including pay
- Promotions
- Being fired from your job
- Grievances against your employer
Reasonable adjustments in the workplace
An employer has to make reasonable adjustments to avoid you being at a disadvantage compared to a non-disabled person.
Reasonable adjustments might include:
- Changing equipment such as a keyboard or having an adjustable desk;
- Installing a ramp for a wheelchair user;
- Allowing someone with an anxiety disorder to have their own desk instead of hot-desking.
You should speak to your employer about any adjustments that you need to be made to allow you to work safely.
If the help you need at work is not covered by your employer making reasonable adjustments you may be able to get help through the government’s Access to Work scheme.
Sources of advice and support
If you have concerns about disability discrimination at work then Citizens Advice have some helpful information on their website.
You can also find information and advice through the Equality and Human Rights Commission.
