The benefit scheme can also provide support plans and money for help at job interviews
The benefit scheme can also provide support plans and money for help at job interviews
Disabled people who are employed or job hunting may be eligible for additional support beyond what they currently receive. A lesser-known programme from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), distinct from disability benefits, can provide specialist equipment, support workers, grants, and funds to disabled workers.
Access to Work is a hidden gem within the DWP, offering a range of tailored support services to disabled people. This allows them to secure and sustain employment whilst accommodating their physical or mental health conditions or disabilities.
The types of support provided by Access to Work include:
- Grants for practical work-related assistance
- Support for managing mental health in the workplace
- Funds for communication support during job interviews
The grant is able to pay for a range of support items and services like:
- Specialist equipment and assistive software
- Support workers, like a BSL interpreter, a job coach or a travel buddy
- Costs of travelling to work, if you cannot use public transport
- Adaptations to your vehicle so you can get to work
- Physical changes to your workplace
The specific support you receive will depend on your condition or disability and how it impacts your work. Crucially, Access to Work support won’t affect any other benefits, and there’s no requirement to repay the grant.
However, you or your employer may need to pay certain costs upfront and claim reimbursement afterwards. Access to Work will not fund reasonable adjustments, as these are your employer’s legal obligation.
The scheme will offer guidance to your employer on what changes should be made as reasonable adjustments. To be eligible for Access to Work 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
- Be 16 or over
- Be in paid work, about to start or return to paid work in the next 12 weeks
- Live and work in England, Scotland or Wales
Northern Ireland has a different system. The Access to Work scheme is not available in the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.
Qualifying conditions can include issues such as dyslexia, diabetes, epilepsy, temporary conditions like a broken leg or physical disabilities such as using a wheelchair. ‘Paid work’ can include:
- Employment
- Self-employment
- Apprenticeship
- Work trial or work experience
- Internship
- Work placement
People can find more information and application processes online.
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