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Individuals with disabilities and health conditions may experience difficulties with attention, memory, executive functioning, or processing information in the workplace.
Clear, written instructions for tasks help ensure that individuals can access the information they need to complete work without additional cognitive strain. Written instructions can also help reduce misunderstandings, ease transitions, and assist with maintaining focus during complex or multi-step tasks.
Benefits of Written Instructions
Providing clear, concise written instructions can support individuals by:
- Reducing cognitive load: Helping individuals avoid feeling overwhelmed by verbal instructions and providing a clear reference they can revisit as needed.
- Supporting memory: Written instructions can assist with recalling details or steps for completing tasks, especially for individuals who may struggle with memory or attention due to their condition.
- Enhancing task clarity: Written documentation allows individuals to better understand what is expected of them, making it easier to execute tasks with confidence.
Providing clear, written instructions for tasks is a relatively simple but highly effective accommodation that can significantly enhance the work experience of employees with disabilities. This adjustment supports cognitive function, reduces the risk of misunderstandings, and fosters a more inclusive and productive workplace environment. This is in accordance with the Australian Human Rights Commission – Guidelines for accommodating employees with disabilities in the workplace.
Costs and Funding
There are no costs for this accommodation. Trainers and managers can consider training specifically in this, which may be covered by JobAccess.
Scope Australia offers Easy Read training, a course designed to help employers make information more accessible.
Employers are encouraged to explore government incentives, such as:
- Workplace Assistance Scheme: Employers may be eligible for financial support to help implement reasonable adjustments that assist employees with a disability. Support to get work items.
- Wage subsidies through programs like the Supported Wage System, which may be applicable for employees with disabilities: Wage subsidies – Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, Australian Government.
- IncludAbility: Created by the Australian Human Rights Commission, offers services and resources for employers and people with disability. Disability employment resources for employers and people with disability.
- Tax Deductions or Subsidies: Employers may be eligible for tax incentives or rebates when providing reasonable adjustments for employees with disabilities: People with disability | Australian Taxation Office.
Creating or providing written instructions (e.g., through the creation of templates or software) are generally low-to-no cost solutions that contribute to greater long-term workplace productivity and well-being for employees with disabilities. Organisations like Inclusion Australia can provide help with upskilling staff.
Related Accommodations
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