How do you explain your access needs without feeling awkward?

RaincoatAndWellies
RaincoatAndWellies Online Community Member Posts: 4 Listener
edited December 2025 in Work

As a freelancer with a dodgy arm and leg, I sometimes work on site with clients. I still find it awkward explaining why I need certain things – a proper chair, breaks to stretch, or being able to use voice-to-text.

Tech helps a lot, but it doesn’t remove the “conversation” part.

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  • Adrian_Scope
    Adrian_Scope Posts: 14,149 Online Community Programme Lead

    Hello @RaincoatAndWellies. That’s such a relatable challenge and I'm certain many of us can feel awkward having those conversations. I think people are far more understanding and accommodating than they used to be and of course we all know we shouldn't feel uncomfortable asking for what we need. But access needs are personal and explaining them can feel like an extra layer of pressure.

    I find being direct but without over explaining helps and saves additional personal questions. "I'm disabled and require X in able to do my best work" or "Could you let me know if a supportive chair will be available?"

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