> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://policies.aic.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://policies.aic.io/accessibility-and-reasonable-adjustments-policy.md).

# Accessibility and Reasonable Adjustments Policy

### Purpose

AIC is committed to removing unnecessary barriers that prevent people from participating fully in work, recruitment, meetings, systems and services.

Accessibility is not an optional extra. It is part of professional delivery.

### Policy Statement

AIC will consider reasonable adjustments for disabled people and others who may face avoidable barriers in the working environment.

This applies to:

* employees
* contractors
* applicants
* subcontractors
* suppliers
* customers
* users of AIC services where applicable

### What Accessibility Means

Accessibility means making environments, tools, documents, processes and communication easier to use by as many people as possible.

This may include consideration of:

* physical accessibility
* digital accessibility
* communication accessibility
* meeting accessibility
* neurodiversity
* assistive technology
* flexible working patterns
* cognitive load
* sensory needs

### Reasonable Adjustments

A reasonable adjustment is a change that helps remove or reduce a disadvantage.

Examples include:

* adjusted working hours
* remote or hybrid working where practical
* accessible document formats
* assistive technology
* modified duties
* quiet working arrangements
* additional breaks
* adjusted interview process
* alternative communication methods
* improved meeting structure
* captioning or transcription where appropriate

### Digital Accessibility

AIC should consider accessibility when creating or delivering:

* websites
* portals
* applications
* documents
* presentations
* forms
* dashboards
* reports
* training materials

Digital content should be clear, structured and usable.

Where relevant, teams should consider:

* keyboard navigation
* colour contrast
* screen reader compatibility
* captions or transcripts
* plain language
* semantic headings
* alternative text
* accessible forms
* error messaging

### Meetings and Communication

Meetings should be run in a way that supports participation.

Good practice includes:

* clear agendas
* defined outcomes
* reasonable notice
* inclusive facilitation
* avoiding unnecessary interruptions
* allowing written follow-up
* providing materials in advance where practical
* avoiding exclusionary language
* recording actions clearly

### Requesting Adjustments

People may request adjustments through:

* a line manager
* delivery lead
* hiring contact
* company director
* another appropriate representative

Requests should be handled respectfully and confidentially.

### Responsibilities

Managers and delivery leads should:

* take requests seriously
* avoid dismissing needs
* consider practical options
* document agreed adjustments where appropriate
* review whether adjustments are working
* protect confidentiality

Individuals should:

* raise adjustment needs where they feel able
* explain the barrier where practical
* cooperate in identifying workable solutions

### No Detriment

AIC does not tolerate negative treatment because someone requests or receives reasonable adjustments.

### Review

Adjustments may need to change over time.

They should be reviewed when:

* the role changes
* the project changes
* working arrangements change
* the adjustment is no longer effective
* the individual requests a review


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