Can I refuse to work with a specific colleague?
Personality clashes vs Harassment. When does a "conflict" become a "reasonable adjustment"?
The Rule
Generally, no. Employers hire teams, and you don’t get to pick your teammates. A personality clash is not a disability issue.
The Exception
If the colleague’s behaviour is the trigger for your disability (e.g. PTSD, severe anxiety) or constitutes harassment, the employer has a duty of care.
- Bullying: This is a grievance/disciplinary matter, not an adjustment.
- Sensory: If a colleague speaks loudly/wears perfume that triggers you, the adjustment is moving your desk, not firing them.
Reasonable Steps
- Mediation: Third-party resolution.
- Communication Charter: Agreeing how you will speak to each other (e.g. “email only” for non-urgent tasks).
- Redeployment: Moving you (or them) to a different team if the relationship is irretrievable.
Unsure about your specific situation?
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