If Your Request Is Refused
A refusal is not the end of the road. You don't have to accept the first answer, and you don't have to handle this alone. This page provides general peer‑support information and does not reproduce BMA or ACAS guidance.
If Your Request Is Refused
An employer can refuse a reasonable adjustment request, but only if they can show the adjustment is genuinely unreasonable in the circumstances. "We've always done it this way" or "it would be difficult to arrange" are not sufficient reasons in law.
A refusal is not the end of the road. You don't have to accept the first answer, and you don't have to handle this alone.
Ask for the refusal in writing
Request a written explanation of why the adjustment has been refused. If they won't put it in writing, note that date and that fact. Both are useful if things escalate.
Use your employer's grievance procedure
Most NHS employers have a formal grievance process. Raising a grievance creates a formal record and triggers a review. Contact your BMA rep or LMC for support before doing this.
Contact the BMA
BMA members have access to employment law advice and direct casework support. If your employer is failing their legal obligations, the BMA can advise on next steps, and in some cases get involved directly. Don't assume nothing can be done before you've spoken to them.
Employment tribunal
As a last resort, you can bring a claim to an employment tribunal for failure to make reasonable adjustments. There are strict time limits, usually three months from the act you're complaining about, so don't delay seeking advice.
Time limits matter
Employment tribunal claims for disability discrimination must usually be brought within three months of the act of discrimination. Don't wait, seek advice from the BMA or an employment solicitor as soon as possible.