Can I ask for a change of job role?

[pollypocke]

Hello,
So I work in a support role and have worked here for a few years but have majorly struggled with the actual work and supporting itself.
I have recently been diagnosed with ASD which explains why I struggle the way I do.
I honestly feel I cannot do this job role but I really want to stay working in this organisation as I'm familiar with everyone there, service users etc. the thought of leaving and finding something else is very daunting.
Can I ask work for a completely different job role due to having a disability? I'm not sure where I stand legally or if I have any right to ask for this change?

You can ask for reasonable adjustments to your current role that would make it more doable, but you can’t simply ask them for another job. You’d have to apply for a new role when one comes available just like any other candidate for a job.

That's incorrect.

Redeployment can be a reasonable adjustment, if a vacancy exists.

You can certainly ask, but it's not as simple as giving you a new job of your choice or making up a job for you. There needs to be a suitable vacancy that you have the skills & experience for, that suits your needs too.

It's quite a tricky adjustment to get, I've only known one person get it and that was down to circumstances of a job being available that was known to be suitable for her because she'd done it before. The unsuitable job had been imposed on her during a restructure and quickly led to performance issues because of a disability. The adjustment was made in lieu of her being dismissed, as they hadn't considered adjustments along the way.

Your best bet is to look for a suitable role and apply for it, alongside asking for adjustments that might help you do your present role more comfortably.