Equality: Voices in Union

Key Issues

Topic 3: Reasonable adjustments and long Covid

About this week

Reasonable adjustments are an essential right in the pursuit of Fair Work for disabled workers.

This topic will provide the opportunity for you to reflect on the importance of reasonable adjustments, consider some of the challenges that may exist, and how to overcome them.

 

The expert video is provided by Sally Witcher, freelance trainer and former Chief Executive of Inclusion Scotland.

Overview

4. What can we do?

What is the impact of long covid on workers?

Access to reasonable adjustments is an essential right of disabled people, that can remove barriers to their equal participation at work. However, the onus is often placed on the worker themselves to advocate for their needs and to justify the benefit of an adjustment, sometimes even to other colleagues.

When reasonable adjustments are not in place, disabled workers work at a detriment. Reasonable adjustments are therefore an essential and important trade union lever for advancing equality.

At this time, long-Covid may be disproportionately impacting certain professions, including teaching. Preventing the spread of the virus remains vital, but it is also crucial to ensure that workers are being taken seriously when they display symptoms and are given the support they need, immediately.

It is essential that employers and members improve their understanding in relation to what is possible for reasonable adjustments and to promote greater openness around the real impact of long-Covid, as an important equality issue at this time.

Possible actions

  • Reflect on how you might support the increased involvement of disabled colleagues in your workplace, as a leader.
  • Consider the two EIS Disability Equality Films in the ‘Further Information’ list below (bullet point two and three) – what are three ways these films could be used to start discussion in your local area, and improve understanding of reasonable adjustment?

Now log into your Padlet to record your reflections, questions and notes. 

Please comment on at least one other participant’s reflections on the Padlet.  

Archive Material

View our archived material on Fair-Work within Scotland’s education system