We have a member of staff who has a disability and is off long term sick. Access to work undertook an assessment and have advised on 3 pieces of equipment that may help this lady work.

However, one of the objects is a very large desk, built in a certain manner. The problem we have is that we have a 24/7 operation around a call centre environment and all staff ‘hot desk’. We do not physically have the room to install the size of desk they are suggesting. Also should we allow the desk the employee concerned will be sat in isolation with her back to the rest of the call centre, and she only works part tiem, so the desk would only be utilised part time.

Are we in our rights to refuse the desk but say yes to the new chari and to the rollermouse, or would we be considered to be in breach of the DDA?

Wendy Acton