Interview guidance

The information below provides general guidance for staff interviewing people who have indicated they have a disability or impairment on their job application form.

What to do

• Allow the person to bring someone with them for support

• Offer assistance to a disabled person if it seems appropriate, but wait until your offer has been accepted before you help. Always ask the person how they would like you to help, rather than assuming that you already know the best way

• If you have limited knowledge of disability or of the implications of an impairment, it may be helpful to do some background reading and talk to the Councils Access Officer. A well informed approach will   project a good image to the applicant and may influence decision regarding acceptance of the post if offered

• Common expressions such as 'see you later' or 'have your heard about' are acceptable to visually impaired and hearing impaired people and will generally not cause offence

• A disabled person will be an expert on their own impairment. Ask for their advice and use it. Many of the barriers anticipated will have already been faced and overcome in their previous education.

• Discuss any issues that you have and don't be afraid.

What not to do

• Do not ask personal questions about a persons disability e.g. 'were you born like that? ' or 'what happened to you?' Questions about a person's disability should only be relevant to the post they are applying for
• Never talk to a disabled person through a companion or personal assistant. Treat adults as adults
• Don't assume that a person is not disabled. Some people have hidden disabilities such as epilepsy or Crohn's disease.
• Do not make assumptions about a person's ability to perform certain tasks. Disabled people often develop innovative solutions to everyday problems with or without technical aids or support. Ask before assuming that something will cause difficulty. Remember that 2 people with the same impairment will have different requirements.

For more detailed information regarding specific impairments, please see document below.

If  you require any help or more information contact our Access Officer.