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Home > Access Needs and Reasonable Adjustments Policy

Access Needs and Reasonable Adjustments Policy

Helping you get the care you need

We want everyone to be able to access our services easily and safely. Some patients may experience barriers when contacting us, attending appointments, or understanding information. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments so that you can get the care you need.

What do we mean by “barriers to access”?

A barrier is anything that makes it harder for you to use our services. This may include:

  • A physical disability or mobility difficulty
  • Sensory needs (for example sight or hearing loss)
  • A learning disability
  • Neurodiversity (such as autism or ADHD)
  • Mental health difficulties or anxiety
  • Communication difficulties
  • Language barriers
  • Difficulty using the phone, online services, or attending at certain times

This is not a complete list – if there is anything that makes accessing our services harder for you, we want to know.

How we can help

Where possible, we can make adjustments such as:

  • Offering longer or quieter appointments
  • Providing information in a different format (easy read, large print, email, etc.)
  • Using a preferred method of contact (for example text or email)
  • Allowing a carer, advocate or family member to support you
  • Adjusting appointment times or how appointments are delivered

Adjustments are based on individual need and availability, and we will always aim to be reasonable and supportive.

What we ask you to do

Please tell us if you have any access needs or require reasonable adjustments.

You can do this by:

  • Speaking to a member of our reception or clinical team
  • Letting us know during an appointment
  • Asking a carer or family member to inform us on your behalf

Recording your needs

With your consent, we will record your access needs on your clinical record.

This helps all staff understand how best to support you and ensures your needs are recognised each time you contact us.

Your information will be recorded sensitively and confidentially

Only relevant healthcare staff will be able to see it

You can ask to update or remove this information at any time

Equality and respect

We are committed to providing care that is inclusive, respectful and fair. No patient will be treated less favourably because of a disability, long‑term condition, or access need.

If you feel your needs have not been met, please speak to a member of our team or use our feedback or complaints process.

Last Updated 23 Apr 2026

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The Apples Medical Centre

East Mill Lane, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 3DG

  • 01935 812633
  • applesmedcentre@nhs.net
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