Alternative formats and reasonable adjustments

Alternative formats

In some cases applicants may request information in an alternative format.  It is not only considered good practice to communicate with applicants in their preferred format, it is a legal obligation of the University’s. The alternative document must have the same content and be of the same quality as the original documents.

If an applicant requests any information in an alternative format its important a note is made and all further correspondence is provided in that preferred format.

A few things to consider;

• As soon as you receive a request for information in an alternative format the first thing to do is check what their preferred format is 
• This request should be prioritised to ensure you get the information to them in a reasonable time to ensure they are able to meet any deadlines

Reasonable adjustments

The University’s application form includes a section asking applicants if they require any reasonable adjustments.  

The Equality Act 2010 requires the University to make reasonable adjustments to their practices and premises to accommodate a disabled applicant, where some arrangement or physical feature of the premises causes a substantial disadvantage. 

Reasonable adjustments need to be considered in the recruitment and selection process and also when a candidate is appointed, some examples may include;

• Making adjustments to premises
• Altering working hours 
• Acquiring or modifying equipment 
• Modifying instructions or reference manuals 
• Modifying procedures for testing or assessments 
• Providing a reader or interpreter

In many cases the funding for these adjustments can be accessed centrally or through schemes such as access to work. Information and advice can be sought from the University’s Staff Disability Advisor, placed in the Disability Advisory and Support Service

Email: dass@manchester.ac.uk