Can I refuse to "Hot Desk"?
Hot desking is a nightmare for many neurodivergent employees. Here is how to secure a fixed desk.
The Issue
Hot desking (sharing desks, clearing them daily) creates uncertainty, sensory issues, and hygiene anxiety. For Autistic employees or those with OCD/Anxiety, it can be debilitating.
Is a Fixed Desk Reasonable?
Yes, highly reasonable. Allocating a specific desk costs nothing.
Arguments to Use
- Setup Time: “I need huge ergonomic adjustments (chair, monitor arm). Setting this up daily takes 20 mins of work time.”
- Sensory Certainty: “I need to sit away from the walkway/kitchen to focus.”
- Anxiety: “Knowing where I will sit reduces my morning panic attacks.”
Compromises
If they absolutely cannot give you one desk (e.g. 200 staff, 100 desks), ask for a priority booking system where you can book the same desk 4 weeks in advance, before others.
Unsure about your specific situation?
Use our interactive tool to check if your request is likely to be considered unreasonable.
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