Reasonable adjustements

Rockyroad123

Hi all, 

I am new here and wondering if anyone has any advice around my problem. I have long Covid, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome and fibromyalgia.  All diagnosed after covid. 

I have managed to stay in work since my infection of Covid, but went off sick in July 2023. Just returned to work last week on a phased return.

My job is very physical, and part of it includes supporting young children who cannot control their body movements. In my role I also work with children who do not need this much support. Do you think it would be reasonable for me to ask to only work with the children who do not need the physical support? 

I fear that without these adjustments that I will relapse but feel guilty for thinking about asking

Stellar

don't feel guilty. you need reasonable adjustments to do that job as you are disabled.

that said, I'd start thinking about changing sectors to something less physical. your health must come first and there's no guarantee your employer will agree to accommodate.

Jimm_Scope

Hi @Rockyroad123, I know it's a difficult subject. I would agree that you should try to not feel guilty, but I know it's something that we do. I've done it plenty of times, but it isn't your fault that you are struggling with these conditions. 

I would talk to your employer and ask if it's possible to have a occupational health assessment if possible? You can still ask for reasonable adjustments beforehand, but to do so in writing in some form. You will of course have to explain why, I am assuming they know of the conditions affecting you.

You can still be very successful in many roles with some reasonable adjustments. If you want to read up about it more I recommend checking out the ACAS site, they have a page on reasonable adjustments. They also have a helpline that gives advice to both employees and employers.

Best of luck with your role, I hope everything goes smoothly. If not we are always here to support you.

Rockyroad123

Thank you for the replies - I have spoken to my manager, and thankfully they have agreed to put these adjustments in place and review periodically with a referral to occupational health if this needs to be permanently in place. 

The great thing is that this part of my role is a very small part. I agree that health is more important than anything else so I am just going to have to see how it goes and then make a decision about if it's feasible to continue in my role whilst maintaining my health. 

I am hoping I can find a way to stay in my role because I have trained and worked very hard to gain my position.

Thanks for the links to further information. I will have a look into it. 

Albus_Scope

Hi @Rockyroad123, I'm so glad your manager is willing to put those adjustments in place, that's great news. I hope it gives you a happy work environment, whilst still meaning you can look after yourself.