Some people may not realise they can get help through the Access to Work scheme
You may be entitled to extra help from the DWP(Image: Dobrila Vignjevic via Getty Images)
It can be difficult navigating the workplace with a disability or health condition. However, many people aren’t aware the Government’s Department for Work and Pensions ( DWP ) provides various accessibility adaptations to help make working life easier.
Launched in 1994, the Access to Work scheme is designed to help people with disabilities or conditions secure employment or remain in their jobs. Whilst the support provided varies depending on individual circumstances, it can include grants for practical assistance, such as travel costs if you’re unable to use public transport, vehicle adaptations, or specialist equipment.
You might also receive mental health support, communication assistance for job interviews, or physical modifications to your workplace, which can be at home if that suits you best. Applications aren’t means-tested based on your earnings, and won’t affect other benefits you receive.
The scheme extends to less visible conditions like epilepsy or mental health problems(Image: Morsa Images via Getty Images)
Certain initial costs may need to be covered by you, but these will be reimbursed later, reports the Mirror. However, the Government’s website makes clear: “Access to Work will not pay for reasonable adjustments. These are the changes your employer must legally make to support you to do your job. Access to Work will advise your employer if changes should be made as reasonable adjustments.”
To be eligible for the Access to Work scheme, applicants must reside in England, Scotland, or Wales, as Northern Ireland administers its own separate programme. Candidates must be at least 16 years old and either currently engaged in paid employment or scheduled to commence or resume work within the following 12 weeks.
Paid employment encompasses both part-time and full-time positions. The scheme does not cover voluntary work but can include:
- Work placement
- Employment
- Work trial or work experience
- Internships
- Self-employment
- Apprenticeships
Furthermore, applicants must have a ‘physical or mental health condition or disability that means you need support to do your job or get to and from work’. Whilst not exhaustive, the Government has outlined several examples where this may apply:
- Mental health conditions, like anxiety or depression
- Illnesses such as diabetes or epilepsy
- Developmental conditions, like autism spectrum disorder
- Learning disabilities or related conditions, such as Down’s syndrome
- ADHD or dyslexia
- Temporary conditions, like a broken leg
- Physical disabilities, such as being hard of hearing or using a wheelchair
Crucially, a formal diagnosis of your condition is not required when submitting an application. Nevertheless, the Government states: “You can get Access to Work and ESA at the same time if you work less than 16 hours a week. There are rules about working while claiming ESA. You can ask your work coach for advice and support.”
Those wishing to apply for the Access to Work scheme may do so via the online portal or by telephoning 0800 121 7479. For those requiring assistance with speaking or hearing during calls, Relay UK can be reached through 18001 followed by 0800 121 7479.
These telephone lines operate between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Applicants will require contact and workplace details, alongside information about how their condition impacts their work and what assistance they believe they require. Additional information can be found on the Government’s website.
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