Access to Work and failing probation

Crazydennie

Just after some advice.  I started a new job in June and started the Access to Work process straightaway.  AtW was granted the end of July for Chair and Computer, Software and training.

I had my 3 month probation in September and was given the rating of 'Requires Improvement' I got my chair and footstool last week but am still waiting for my employer to provide a new computer with the required software.  6 month Probation is in 6 weeks and I wanted to know if they can let me go if they haven't provided the support I have been assessed as requiring. I think not but am unsure what to expect.  I advised them of my disability at interview so they knew when hiring me that I had special requirements.

TELLIT01

In theory you can be released at any time in the first 2 years, without explanation.  The employer in this case does seem to be trying to provide the required equipment, and there may be genuine reasons the computer and software hasn't yet arrived.  Have you asked why the computer and software hasn't yet been provided?

Crazydennie

Surely i would be looking at an extension of my probation rather than dismissal.  If they I have been told I need certain equipment to do the job and they have not provided it and I am failing without it, surely they can't sack me.  Don't they have a duty to provide it?  I have asked and as of the end of last week it was being chased up but that doesn't help me with only 6 weeks to go.  I work for a Local Authority too so would have expected better from them.

elsien

I suppose the main question is, is your requires improvement rating related to your disability and access needs?
Because it would be possible to require improvement on completely unrelated grounds, in which case you need to address whatever the issue is. do you have a performance improvement plan?

Brie

As someone who working in workplace adjustments I would believe that you would continue in probation for a longer period while awaiting your equipment.  You can't be expected to learn a role when they don't give you the tools to do so.  no different than saying to me "write a symphony" but not giving me paper and pen to write it or a musical instrument to play it on.  Until I have the equipment I can't do the job and shouldn't be penalised for that.

Crazydennie

I'm not working fast enough for them but the work we do is heavily computer based. They are not concerned about the content of my assessments but simply the speed at which I turn round cases.

DigSunPap

Does it really seem like a company that you want to work for long term if they aren't providing you with the equipment that you need early on? Especially for a person who is disabled, you would think that they would prioritise making you feel comfortable where you work.