Cost-Free Reasonable Adjustments Every School Can Make Today

Creating an inclusive school environment doesn’t always require funding — it starts with awareness and intent. Many reasonable adjustments that support disabled pupils, staff, and visitors are simple, free, and immediately actionable. Yet they’re often overlooked.

Here are practical, zero-cost adjustments that schools can implement right now to meet Equality Act duties and foster a culture of inclusion:

• Untie emergency alarm cords: These must hang freely to the floor, not looped or tied up. Tied cords are a serious safety risk and breach accessibility standards. Staff should check regularly and untie them immediately.

🚪 Physical Environment

• Declutter hallways and escape routes: Remove obstacles like bins, display boards, and stored equipment. Clear routes support wheelchair users, pupils with visual impairments, and emergency evacuations.

• Prop open heavy doors during busy periods to ease access for those with limited strength or mobility.

• Ensure signage is visible and consistent, using large fonts and high contrast — especially for toilets, exits, and key facilities.

• Designate quiet spaces for pupils needing sensory breaks. Even a spare room or screened-off area can make a difference

🗣️ Communication and Interaction

• Use plain English in letters, signage, and policies to reduce cognitive load and improve understanding.

• Offer verbal explanations alongside written instructions for pupils with dyslexia or visual impairments.

• Allow extra time for responses in lessons or meetings, supporting those with processing difficulties.

• Avoid idioms or sarcasm in formal settings, which can confuse neurodivergent pupils.

🕒 Flexibility and Timing

• Offer flexible arrival times for pupils with fatigue, anxiety, or transport challenges.

• Allow movement breaks during long lessons or assemblies.

• Permit remote attendance for parents or staff who cannot travel due to disability or caring responsibilities.

👥 Attitudes and Culture

• Avoid assumptions — ask individuals what works best for them.

• Model inclusive language (e.g., “wheelchair user” rather than “confined to a wheelchair”).

• Encourage peer support — buddy systems can foster inclusion without formal intervention.

• Celebrate diversity through assemblies, displays, and curriculum choices.

📄 Policy and Practice

• Include accessibility in risk assessments and planning documents.

• Review uniform and dress codes to ensure they don’t disadvantage those with sensory or physical needs.

• Make reasonable adjustment statements visible in policies and on your website.

• Train staff to spot barriers and respond proactively — awareness is the first adjustment.

These adjustments cost nothing — but they signal everything. They show that your school values dignity, safety, and participation for all. If you’d like help auditing your current practices or drafting accessibility plans, Equality Act Audits Limited is here to support you.