A blind college worker was discriminated against because of his disability in Lewisham.

An employment tribunal held at London South Employment Tribunal Office in Croydon ruled Lewisham Southwark College failed to make reasonable adjustments for the college's disability officer, putting him at a "substantial disadvantage".

Michael Lambert, who is completely blind after being involved in an accident when he was 16, was unable to gain access to key computer software despite repeated requests over a number of years.

He said: "I am delighted the case has been upheld.

"It's been a long struggle, but I hope the result will galvanise disabled employees to challenge unequal access to facilities.

"This result should send a clear message to employers that they need to take requests for reasonable adjustments seriously."

In his ruling on May 19, Judge Lamb said the college had failed to respond to Mr Lambert's requests in a "coherent, logical and urgent manner" and the claim of disability discrimination was well founded.

From January 2011, he made repeated requests for the software to be integrated and adjustments made but the college failed to prioritise Mr Lambert's needs.

The University and College Union general secretary, Sally Hunt, who supported Mr Lambert throughout the tribunal, said the college's failures were unacceptable.

She added: "It's absolutely unacceptable that the college failed to act on so many occasions to address Mr Lambert's needs, and his personal wellbeing and professional development suffered as a result.

"The ruling reinforces the need for colleges to swiftly act upon requests from disabled staff for reasonable adjustments."

In a statement, Lewisham Southwark College said: "The case is still ongoing and we're not able to discuss the detail at this stage.

"Out of multiple main points raised as grievances, Judge Lamb ruled in the college's favour on the majority.

"Whilst any such case is regrettable, Mr Lambert remains in our employment."