· Resources · 4 min read
Reasonable adjustments for your assessment
Learn what adjustments you can expect and what you can request to make your assessment more comfortable, predictable, and accessible.
Every person experiences the world differently. During assessments, we aim to make things as comfortable, fair, and accessible as possible. Some approaches are part of our default way of working. Others can be adapted to suit your needs or preferences.
You can let us know what you need before or during your free 15-minute consultation, or at any point in the assessment process. There is no limit on what you can ask for, you can change your mind, and we will always try to meet your needs wherever possible.
Sensory comfort
Default approach
- Small sensory kit brought to in-person appointments
- Limited use of perfumes or deodorants during home visits
- Calm, low-stimulus environment for online or in-person sessions recommended
Additional or alternative options
- Adjusted lighting or background colour
- Option to wear noise-reducing headphones
- Complete no-scent policy if preferred
Communication and understanding
Default approach
- Clear, plain language used throughout
- Choice between spoken, written, or mixed communication
- Automated subtitles available for video calls
Additional or alternative options
- Text-based communication before or during sessions
- Easy-read or symbol-supported documents
- Interpreter or Makaton-supported communication
- Visual aids, diagrams, or summaries to support understanding
Predictability and control
Default approach
- Agenda each session provided in advance
- Advance notice of any changes to time, content, or format
- Clear explanation of each stage of the process
- The same assessor will be with you from beginning to end
- Only your assessor will be in sessions with you at a time
Additional or alternative options
- Extra getting-to-know-you sessions can be booked before starting
- Written session plan or checklist
- Option to review structure or materials (as far as possible) in advance
- Scheduled breaks
Session timing and breaks
Default approach
- Sessions planned around your preferred time of day
- Breaks offered at a point in the session
- Longer sessions available if needed
Additional or alternative options
- Shorter sessions
- Splitting the assessment across additional days
- Scheduled comfort or movement breaks
- Follow-up support sessions after the assessment
Location and mode of sessions
Default approach
- Choice between home visits and secure online video appointments
- Clear explanation if a home visit is recommended for assessment accuracy
Additional or alternative options
- Extra home visits if preferred
- Fully online process if required
- Flexibility to change between online and in-person
You can read more and book your free 15-minute consultation at this link.
Support and accompaniment
Default approach
- You are welcome to have a carer, family member, friend, or pet(s) present
Additional or alternative options
- Liaising with your supporter before or after sessions
- Joint planning for accessibility or wellbeing needs
- Gathering more information from a supporter (informant) to reduce some of the questions asked of you
Your information
Default approach
- You can add comments or corrections before the report is complete
Additional or alternative options
- Option not to contribute to the written report
- Option to review notes after sessions
- Agreement on how updates are shared and who receives them
- Choice to view drafts or final versions only
Written information and presentation
Default approach
- Written materials are clear, accessible, and visually structured
- Standard font size 14, using a dyslexia-friendly typeface and colour-blind-safe design
Additional or alternative options
- Easy-read versions of any documents
- Larger print, coloured paper, or wider line spacing
- Voice notes, video summaries, or diagrams instead of written text
Reminders and scheduling
Default approach
- Email confirmations, calendar invites, and reminders for all sessions
Additional or alternative options
- Text message reminders
- Extra reminders for forms or questionnaires
- Inviting additional recipients to the calendar invites or reminders
Feedback and next steps
Default approach
- Space to ask questions and check understanding at any time
- Follow-up meeting to discuss outcome and recommendations
- Reports discussed with you before they are finalised
Additional or alternative options
- Extra time to reflect and review at any point in the process
- Support with sharing outcomes with workplaces, education providers, or healthcare teams
Health and safety
Default approach
- Clear hygiene and infection-control practice for home visits and all equipment taken with me
- No face coverings used unless clinically required or requested
- Up-to date on all relevant and eligible vaccines
Additional or alternative options
- Lateral Flow Tests before visits
- Use of see-through masks for lip-reading or communication
- Face masks worn on request
- Let me know if you or a close loved one is particularly vulnerable to infection and I can take extra care and precautions
Identity and language
Default approach
- Pronoun sharing and respect for gender identity at every stage
Additional or alternative options
- Different pronouns or names used in different settings if preferred
- Agreement on how you are described in notes and reports
- Use of your preferred name, title, or form of address
