What are alternative formats?

To support disabled and neurodivergent applicants, it’s important to offer alternative (or accessible) formats when advertising jobs. 

Alternative formats refer to different versions of physical or digital documents that are presented in a way that makes them more accessible to individuals who may require them.

Alternative formats are considered a reasonable adjustment under the Equality Act 2010. We recommend that you make sure that you mention that alternative formats are available in your job descriptions.

Some examples of  alternative formats may include:

• Offering large print application forms for visually impaired individuals.
• Ensuring that your job post is accessible for screen readers.
• Offering alternative methods of applying. This may include submitting a video recording instead of a traditional typed application form.
• Producing Easy Read versions of documents.
• Providing or printing application forms with a different colour background.
• Providing Braille versions of documents, if requested.

It’s also important to think about these questions when considering alternative formats in your application process:

• What information are you looking to gain from the applicant?
• Can you get this information in another way other than your current application form?
• Do you have the means available to provide alternative formats even if you may not be asked for them that often?
• Do you have an email address and phone number clearly defined in your application process in case candidates wish to request any reasonable adjustments?