Workplace Needs Assessments

Removing Barriers & Unlocking Potential for Disabled and Neurodivergent Employees

What is a Workplace Needs Assessment?

A Workplace Needs Assessment is a tailored service that identifies barriers in the workplace and provides tailored solutions to help employees perform at their best.

Which could include:

Unlike assessments that focus on medical diagnoses, this assessment prioritises the barriers an employee is experiencing. It’s designed to empower them with the tools and adjustments they need while ensuring your business remains inclusive and compliant.

Woman ​works ​at ​a ​desk ​with ​an ​ergonomic ​mouse ​and ​wears ​a ​wrist ​support.​ ​She ​has ​a ​brain ​injury ​and ​limited ​mobility.​

Why is a Workplace Needs Assessment Important?

A Workplace Needs Assessment isn’t just a box-ticking exercise—it’s a proactive step towards creating a workplace where every employee can contribute, perform, and succeed.

For many neurodivergent employees or those with disabilities, small adjustments can make a huge difference to productivity, confidence, and overall job satisfaction. But without a clear plan, employers often struggle to know what’s needed, what’s reasonable, and where to start.

By investing in a Workplace Needs Assessment, you can:

– Identify and implement Reasonable Adjustments that support your employees without disrupting your business operations
– Reduce barriers that may be affecting performance, morale, or retention
– Show your commitment to inclusion – a key factor in attracting and retaining talent
– Stay legally compliant with your obligations under the Equality Act 2010.

Workplace Needs Assessment Process

Sycamore Disability & Business Workplace Needs Assessments are designed to deliver actionable, practical recommendations. Here’s what’s involved:

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I start by understanding your employee’s role and challenges:

  • Employee Questionnaire: Captures their experiences, strengths, and any previous reports (e.g., Occupational Health reports or Reasonable Adjustments passports).
  • Line Manager Questionnaire: Provides key context about their role, policies, and processes.

Before the assessment, I:

  • Review the submitted information.
  • Research any relevant health conditions or workplace challenges.
  • Prepare a tailored assessment plan for the employee.

The assessment is conducted remotely (or in person, if needed) and includes:

  • A 30-minute discussion with the line manager.
  • Two 1.5 hour conversations with the employee (to be split across different days), focusing on their role, challenges, and potential solutions.
  • Demonstrations of recommended tools or software (where applicable).
  • Optional in-person assessments are available for an additional fee.

Within 10 working days, I’ll provide:

  • A draft report for the employee’s feedback.
  • A final version with tailored recommendations, supplier details, and quotes.
  • A follow-up session with the line manager to discuss the report.
  • 6-Week Review: Check that adjustments have been implemented and address any barriers.
  • 6-Month Review: Evaluate the effectiveness of adjustments and recommend further improvements.

Workplace Needs Assessment Packages

Lite Workplace Needs Assessment

Perfect for employers looking for clear recommendations without ongoing support.

  • Full assessment process, including preparation, assessment, and reporting.
  • No follow-up reviews.

 

Cost for the whole package: £500

Standard Workplace Needs Assessment

Best for employers seeking ongoing support to ensure long-term success.

  • Full assessment process, including preparation, assessment, and reporting.
  • Two follow-up reviews (6 weeks and 6 months).

 

Cost for the whole package: £750

Take the Next Step Toward an Inclusive Workplace

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Just send me a message and we can discuss your needs and whether an assessment would be the best option for you

Workplace Needs Assessment FAQs

No. A formal diagnosis is not required. The assessment focuses on the challenges your employee faces in their role and how to overcome them.

Yes, although assessments are primarily conducted remotely. If an in-person assessment is required, additional travel costs will apply.

Reports are delivered within 10 working days of the assessment, and follow-up reviews (Standard package only) are scheduled at 6 weeks and 6 months.

In these cases, I’ll bring in a specialist sub-contractor to ensure your employee receives the best support.

Depending on the recommendations, you may need to contribute financially (e.g., for certain adjustments or equipment). I’ll provide clear guidance during the process. 

Your employee(s) may also be eligible for The Access to Work scheme. This is a UK government grant that helps cover the cost of workplace adjustments for employees with disabilities or health conditions.

Absolutely. I work with employees across a wide range of challenges, including neurodivergence, mental health conditions, and physical disabilities. For example: 

  • Autism
  • ADHD
  • Dyslexia
  • Dyspraxia
  • Dyscalculia

 

Still have questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out!

A Workplace Needs Assessment takes a holistic approach to the employee and their needs. We don’t need to know their formal diagnosis—we focus on identifying the barriers they face in the workplace and recommending practical solutions.

An Occupational Health Assessment is conducted by a qualified healthcare professional and typically focuses on legal questions such as whether an employee meets the definition of disability under the Equality Act 2010 or whether they are “fit to work.”

A Workplace Needs Assessment, on the other hand, is highly practical—it focuses on how to support an employee in their specific role. Occupational Health may recommend reasonable adjustments, but they often lack the expertise to provide detailed recommendations on assistive technology, specialist software, or specific workplace adaptations.

A key part of my role is staying up to date with the latest assistive technology, workplace adjustments, and best practices, ensuring that employees receive the most effective and relevant support.