Appendix D

Accommodations for candidates with special needs

The following are a list of accommodations that you may consider when dealing with candidates with special needs. The list is not exhaustive and provides an overview of options that you may consider. The list is split into two categories, one for communicating in writing with candidates and the other for communicating in an oral fashion with candidates e.g. on the phone or face to face.

In general, it is worth remembering that the degree to which a disability affects a candidate may differ and this should be taken into account when making accommodations. It may also be useful to ask candidates what facilities they require and what accommodations have been provided to them in the past.

Disability	Written Communication	Oral Communication
Visual impairment	Braille IT packages, e.g. Hal/Jaws/ Supernova Large Print Material Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) Special lighting facilities Use of a magnifier	No special accommodations are required when dealing with people on the phone. In a ‘face to face’ environment it can be useful for people to clearly identify themselves before speaking. It is also a good idea to advise the candidate of the layout of the room and guide them appropriately.
Hearing impairment	No special accommodations are required when communicating in writing.	Sign Interpreter Close proximity to assessor to facilitate lip reading It can be useful to have flash cards available in case communication becomes difficult.
Speech Difficulties	No special accommodations are required when communicating in writing.	Candidates may need extra time in order to communicate their message effectively.
Dyslexia	Different coloured background paper and text. Large print text	No special accommodations are equired when communicating orally.
Motor disabilities	No special accommodations are required when communicating orally or in writing with people who have motor difficulties. However, easy access to the venue, toilets etc. are important. With some motor disabilites it may also be necessary to allow a little extra time and short rest periods if required.

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