Reasonable Modifications for Glasgow Council Services

Civil Rights and Equity Scotland 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 11, 2026 Flag of Scotland

In Glasgow, Scotland, people with disabilities and others who need adjustments can request reasonable modifications to council services to access public buildings, communications, and everyday services. This guide explains how to make a request to Glasgow City Council, the legal basis under the Equality Act 2010, practical steps to document a need, how the council typically responds, and how to escalate if a request is refused. It is aimed at residents, carers and advocates who want clear, actionable information on making requests, following up, and using complaint or appeal routes if necessary.

What is a reasonable modification

Reasonable modifications are changes to policies, practices or physical features to remove barriers and enable access to services. Examples include alternative communication formats, adjusted appointment times, portable ramps, or staffed assistance during visits.

How to request a modification

  • Contact the service team directly by phone, email or in person with a clear description of the modification you need and why.
  • State any deadlines or critical dates and the best method to receive a response.
  • Provide supporting information where helpful, such as a medical letter, social care report, or details of prior adjustments.
  • If you use a third-party advocate, confirm you have given consent for them to act on your behalf.
Put your request in writing so there is a record of what was requested and when.

Penalties & Enforcement

Councils must not discriminate by failing to make reasonable adjustments when required by the Equality Act 2010; remedies are primarily civil and focus on redress rather than fixed administrative fines. Specific monetary fines or daily penalties for failing to provide reasonable adjustments are not set out on the cited statute page.[1]

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offence ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: court orders for remedy, declarations, compensation and injunctions may be available under civil law.
  • Enforcer: no single national fine enforcer; legal actions are brought through civil courts and remedies follow judicial process.
  • Inspection and complaints: use Glasgow City Council complaints and equality contact routes listed below to report failures.
  • Appeal/review routes and time limits: specific statutory time limits for court claims are set by civil procedure; exact time limits are not specified on the cited page.
If the council declines a request, ask for written reasons and the internal review or complaints route immediately.

Applications & Forms

Glasgow City Council does not publish a single, mandatory "Reasonable Adjustment" form on the primary statutory text cited; requests may be submitted by email, phone or in writing to the service provider or equality team. If a specialist form exists for a particular service (for example, housing, licensing or education), the service page will set that out.

Common scenarios and action steps

  • Appointments and assessments: request alternative times or venues and confirm arrangements in writing.
  • Parking and access to buildings: ask for accessible parking or escort assistance at the point of booking.
  • Information in alternative formats: specify format (large print, braille, audio, Easy Read) and acceptable delivery method.
  • Home or site visits: agree adjustments such as additional time, a chaperone, or a different assessor.
Early, specific requests increase the chance of a timely and effective adjustment.

Key practical steps

  • Step 1: Identify the barrier and the specific change that would help.
  • Step 2: Contact the service team and equality lead with a written request.
  • Step 3: Keep records, request a timescale for response, and follow the council complaints process if needed.

FAQ

Who is covered by reasonable modification duties?
People with disabilities as defined under the Equality Act 2010 are covered; the duty applies where a physical or procedural change would remove a barrier to using a service.[1]
How long will the council take to respond?
Response times vary by service; ask for a timescale when you make the request and use the council complaints route if deadlines are missed.
Can I appeal if my request is refused?
Yes. Use the councils internal complaints and review procedures first, then consider civil remedies under the Equality Act 2010 if unresolved.

How-To

  1. Describe the barrier and the precise modification you need in writing.
  2. Send the request to the service contact and the council equality team; keep a copy.
  3. If refused, ask for written reasons and the internal review or complaints process.
  4. If internal routes fail, seek legal advice about civil remedies under the Equality Act 2010.

Key Takeaways

  • Make requests early and in writing to create a clear record.
  • Use the councils equality contact and complaints routes if responses are delayed or refused.
  • Legal remedies are civil and aimed at redress rather than fixed fines; seek advice for court action.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Equality Act 2010 - legislation.gov.uk

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