Short answer: Ask early, be specific, link the adjustment to the barrier, give a simple timescale, and keep it in writing. You do not need to overshare medical detail, you only need to explain the impact and the fix. Use the templates below for applications, interviews, and in role requests.
Reality check, the employer market
It is unlawful to reject or penalise someone for asking for reasonable adjustments. That is the law. In the real world, especially in a tight employer market, some teams still mark people down quietly. That risk is real. The choice is yours. You can ask up front and filter out the wrong employers early, you can stage your request so it is small and specific for each step, or you can wait until you have an offer if the process barriers are minor for you. If a company does reject you for asking, take that as reassurance they were not the right fit. You saved yourself future grief.
When to ask and who to ask
Ask as soon as a barrier appears. For applications and interviews, email the hiring contact or HR. For in role changes, email your line manager and copy HR for record keeping.
What to include
- The barrier you face, in one clear sentence
- The adjustment you need, practical and specific
- A short note on impact if the adjustment is not made
- Optional evidence if it helps, short and relevant
- A simple timescale to implement or trial
Pragmatic strategies
- Small and specific early ask. One clear change that removes the immediate barrier, easy to say yes to.
- Staged disclosure. Ask for what you need at each step, do not front load everything if it is not needed yet.
- Offer stage. If the interview format did not disadvantage you, request the adjustments you need for the job once you have an offer.
Signals to watch
- Good signs. Quick acknowledgment, practical solutions, trial periods, written confirmation.
- Red flags. Demands for full diagnosis, refusal to consider trials, policy says nothing, tone that implies hassle.
Template 1, application stage
Subject: Adjustment request for [Role Title] application Hello [Name], I am applying for the [Role Title]. I need a reasonable adjustment for the application process. Barrier: [Example, the online test has a strict timer that reduces my accuracy] Adjustment requested: [Example, 25 percent extra time or a non timed version] Impact if not adjusted: [Short, I will not be able to demonstrate my actual ability] Please confirm this can be arranged. I am happy to provide brief supporting evidence if needed. Regards, [Your name]
Template 2, interview stage
Subject: Interview adjustments for [Date] Hello [Name], Thank you for the interview invite. I need the following reasonable adjustments. Barrier: [Example, rapid back to back questions reduce processing time] Adjustments requested: * [Example, send the agenda and any tasks 48 hours before] * [Example, allow brief written notes during the interview] * [Example, quiet room with minimal interruptions] Please confirm. A short trial of these adjustments will let me give you a fair view of my skills. Regards, [Your name]
Template 3, in role request
Subject: Reasonable adjustment request Hello [Manager Name], I am requesting a reasonable adjustment to remove a barrier I face in my day to day work. Barrier: [Example, frequent unscheduled calls interrupt deep work and increase errors] Adjustment requested: [Example, switch to written updates and scheduled calls after 2 pm] Impact: [Short, this change improves accuracy and output without reducing availability] Please confirm a two week trial starting [Date]. I will share a short review at the end. Regards, [Your name]
Template 4, polite nudge when ignored
Subject: Follow up, reasonable adjustment request Hello [Name], Following up on my adjustment request sent on [Date]. Please confirm receipt and next steps. I am keen to agree a simple plan so I can do my best work. Regards, [Your name]
Proof and privacy
You do not need to share your full medical history. Share the minimum needed to explain the barrier and the solution. Keep attachments short, store the thread, and keep a simple timeline of requests and responses.
Useful internal links
FAQ
Can asking hurt my chances It should not, the law protects you. In reality it sometimes does. If that happens, try to treat it as a filter and move on.
Do I need a formal diagnosis to ask No, explain the barrier and the fix clearly.
Should I copy HR For in role requests, yes, it helps record keeping.
Can I suggest a review date Yes, a short trial with a review keeps it practical.
Plain English, not legal advice. If your case is sensitive, consider independent advice.
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