What is Access to Work?

Access to Work is a scheme which has been set up by the Government with the aim of helping disabled people struggling to gain employment to get back into work. Employees will be able to seek advice on how to overcome employment problems which are due to their disability and also gain access to funding which they may be eligible for. Employers will also be able to get practical information and advice as well as access to funding for costs which result in employing a disabled person. The scheme aims to make life easier for employees and employers alike and is available to people who are already in employment, as well as those who are just entering the world of work. It is being funded by the Department for Work and Pensions and implemented by Jobcentre Plus.

Who does it help?
The scheme is available to anyone who has a long-term medical condition that lasts longer than 12 months, as well as anyone who is officially classified as disabled. To be eligible a person must also be either in a full, part time or in a self employed paid role, unemployed but about to start work or unemployed and about to begin a work trial. They must also be over 16 years old and be in a position where they feel that their disability is affecting how well they can do there job.

What support is available?
The amount of monetary support available depends on the employment status of the applicant at the time of applying. One hundred percent of costs will be paid to the applicant if he or she is currently employed and has previously been self employed or unemployed or in their job for less than six weeks. If the period of employment is over six weeks, the Employment Service will contribute eighty percent of approved costs above three hundred pounds and up to ten thousand pounds over a three year period. Funds can be used to pay for things like disability vehicles or other mobility solutions.