The Government’s Access to Work programme provides support for people with disabilities or health conditions to help them get into work or stay in work
Managing work while living with a disability or health condition might appear daunting. But did you know that the Government’s Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) offers various accessibility adjustments to make things easier?
Founded in 1994, the Access to Work scheme is designed to help people with disabilities or conditions find work or stay in their current positions. While the support offered depends on your individual circumstances, it could include funding for practical help, such as travel costs if public transport isn’t accessible, car modifications, or specialised equipment.
You might also qualify for mental health assistance, communication support during job interviews, or even physical workplace adjustments – which could be at your home if that better suits your requirements. The applications aren’t means-tested, and they won’t impact any other benefits you’re receiving as long as you work for more than one hour weekly.
You may have to pay some upfront costs, but these will be reimbursed later. However, the Government’s website clarifies: “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.”
If you’re interested in applying for the Access to Work programme, you must live in England, Scotland, or Wales, as Northern Ireland runs a separate scheme. You also need to be at least 16 years old and either currently employed or due to start/return to work within the next 12 weeks, reports Lancs Live.
A paid job can be either part-time or full-time. It doesn’t include voluntary work, but it can include:
- Work trial or work experience
- Internships
- Self-employment
- Apprenticeships
- Work placement
- Employment
Lastly, you 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’. While this isn’t an exhaustive list, the Government has provided several examples where this might apply:
- Illnesses such as diabetes or epilepsy
- Developmental conditions, like autism spectrum disorder
- Learning disabilities or related conditions, such as Down syndrome
- ADHD or dyslexia
- Temporary conditions, like a broken leg
- Physical disabilities, such as being hard of hearing or using a wheelchair
- Mental health conditions, like anxiety or depression
You don’t need a diagnosis of your condition to apply. However, the Government adds: “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.”
Anyone keen to apply for the Access to Work scheme can do so online or by calling 0800 121 7479. If you have difficulty speaking or hearing on the phone, contact Relay UK through 18001 and then 0800 121 7479. These lines are open from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.
You will need contact and workplace information, plus details on how your condition affects your work and what support you think you need to apply.
Further information is available on the Government’s website.