Case study: Adjustments for an employee with dyslexia

An individual within the constabulary was struggling with written work especially in terms of structure and writing thoughts clearly. Traits of dyslexia were identified and an assessment was undertaken.

As the employee was also studying, the assessment was paid for by her higher education student services. On receipt of the report, recommendations made were implemented in the workplace. These include looking into purchasing ‘mind map’ software and one to one lessons with Dyslexia Action, Derby, to help her structure and write up reports.

The impact of this was increased confidence of the employee, particularly knowing there was a reason behind the difficulties they were experiencing, confidence to fulfil the functions of their role more efficiently and increased productivity.

The individual says: “This has made a significant difference to my working environment. I feel far more comfortable in my role. Just knowing there was a reason for the barriers I was experiencing has helped enormously. The support from my line manager has also been great.”

Case study: Adjustments for an employee with epilepsy

Lisa who has epilepsy was successfully recruited to the Criminal Justice Department. As well as epilepsy she had difficulty walking and severely restricted movement in one of her hands, the result of a stroke shortly after birth. It was clear that a number adjustments would be needed in order to assist Lisa in her role.

Due to the limited use of her hand and her restricted mobility, the filing of large files needed to be discounted from Lisa’s daily tasks. Lisa was encouraged to carry out some of the filing, but only of those files that she was comfortable with. The use of steps was not suitable and this ruled out any filing at the upper level.  A ‘hands free’ answering kit was also obtained as telephony was an important aspect of her job.

In addition Lisa informed the department that a physiotherapist from the Derbyshire Royal Infirmary could visit the workplace and advise on any further adjustments. This was duly arranged and led to a higher wrist rest being obtained in order to avoid possible strain.

Staff were also instructed on what to do should an epileptic seizure occur while Lisa was at work. A person trained in first aid demonstrated the necessary action to be taken by all staff.  Guidance was also provided by email and included in pamphlets which were given out to staff.

A flexi-time policy is operated within Derbyshire Constabulary covering the hours of 8am to 6pm. Although sometimes inconvenient, care was taken to ensure that Lisa did not work on her own.   

Evacuation drills have also been taken into consideration. Staff were informed of the importance in ensuing Lisa was escorted down the stairs and safely out of the building. In these instances Lisa was accompanied by two members of staff in case of a seizure in order for someone to be able to stay with her while the other person went for assistance.

The adjustments that were made helped Lisa to be able to perform the majority of the duties within her role and they also helped demonstrate the importance and value of teamwork within the work environment.

(www.derbyshire.police.uk)