Disability and Reasonable Adjustments
Your obligations under the Equality Act when absence is related to disability.
Employer-Side Advice Only
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ERA 2025 Updated
Bolton, Manchester, North WestYour obligations under the Equality Act when absence is related to disability. This is an employer-focused guide written specifically for North West businesses. Scroll down for the full breakdown, or book a free consultation if you need advice on this right now.
What Employers Need to Know
This guide covers the key legal and practical considerations around disability and reasonable adjustments for employers in the North West. The law in this area is well established, but the practical application often catches employers out.
Getting this right requires understanding both the legal framework and the procedural steps that employment tribunals expect to see. The sections below walk you through both.
The Legal Framework
The legal position on disability and reasonable adjustments is governed by the Employment Rights Act 1996, the Equality Act 2010 where applicable, and the Acas Code of Practice on Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures.
Employment tribunals assess each case on its own facts, but the principles are consistent: was there a fair reason, was the process fair, and would a reasonable employer have acted in the same way?
Practical Steps for Employers
The practical steps you need to take will depend on the specific circumstances, but the following framework applies in most cases:
Gather the facts before making any decisions
Document everything from the outset
Follow the Acas Code of Practice where it applies
Take advice early, before making any final decision
ERA 2025: What Changes for Sickness & Absence
SSP payable from day one of absence. The three-day waiting period is removed.
Unfair dismissal after 6 months means capability dismissals for absence carry more risk earlier.
DaisyHR helps North West employers manage absence fairly and reduce tribunal risk.
Read our full ERA 2025 guideFrequently Asked Questions
Yes, but only through a fair capability process with medical evidence, reasonable adjustments considered, and proper procedure followed.
When absence is prolonged, recurring, or you need medical guidance on fitness for work or reasonable adjustments.
From April 2026, SSP is payable from day one. The three-day waiting period is removed and more employees qualify.
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Absence management advice for employers across Bolton, Manchester and the wider North West. · Last reviewed: March 2026