PSO 2855 - Inside Time

PSO 2855 Page 11CHAPTER 8Reasonable adjustments8.1 Some factors when considering reasonableness are:Whether taking particular steps would be effective in overcoming the difficulty thatdisabled people face in getting access;The extent to which it is practicable for the service provider to take the steps;Financial and other costs of making the adjustment;The amount of disruption caused by taking the steps;Money already spent on making adjustments;The availability of financial or other assistance.8.2 All Governors and staff need to look to make reasonable adjustments in respect ofprisoners with disabilities, and to document where these are not possible. It is importantnot to make assumptions in respect of a prisoners needs, but to find out what is actuallyrequired. Adjustments are not always costly and can include:Providing a handrail in a cell;Providing a vibrating alarm clock for a prisoner who is deaf or hard of hearing;Painting or marking steps to make them more visible for sight impaired prisoners;Use of portable ramps to facilitate access;Use user friendly documents and signs (large text, simplified language);Ensuring that prisoners with a learning disability fully understand what is said tothem8.3 See further examples and details of good practice at Annexes C & D.8.4 Governors need to be aware that if reasonable adjustments are not made in respect of aprisoner with a disability, that they are vulnerable to legal challenge.Issue No. 295 Issue date 3/04/08