The Access to Work scheme broken down and explained

In the UK, the Access to Work (AtW) scheme is a lifeline for people with disabilities or long-term health conditions who want to thrive in the workplace.

Administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), the scheme provides financial support to overcome work-related challenges that might not be fully met by an employer’s standard reasonable adjustments.

But how exactly does it work, and what support does it offer? Let’s break it down.

What is the Access to Work scheme?

Access to Work is a government-funded initiative designed to help individuals with disabilities or health conditions access the tools and assistance they need to succeed at work. It goes beyond the legal requirements for employers under the Equality Act 2010 by providing financial assistance for additional support that might otherwise be costly or difficult to arrange.

Who can apply?

The scheme is available to:

People with a physical, sensory or mental health condition that affects their ability to work.
Employees or self-employed individuals (including those working from home).
Those who are about to start a new job or need support for a job interview.

To be eligible, you must be over 16 and not receiving Employment Support Allowance (ESA) without any work-related activity requirements.

What support does Access to Work cover?

Access to Work offers a wide range of tailored support, including:

Communication support services

This includes British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters, note-takers and live captioning services for employees who are Deaf or hard of hearing. Captioning, in particular, ensures that employees can fully participate in meetings, training and other workplace communications.

Assistive technology and equipment

Funding is available for specialised equipment, software, and other technology solutions to help employees perform their roles effectively.

Travel assistance

If public transport isn’t accessible due to a disability, the scheme can cover the cost of taxis or other suitable travel options.

Mental health support

Confidential mental health support from qualified professionals is available to help individuals manage stress, anxiety, and other work-related mental health challenges.

Adaptations to the workplace

This can include ergonomic furniture, modified workstations or other physical adaptations to make the working environment more accessible.

How to apply for Access to Work

Applying for Access to Work is simple:

Contact the Access to Work Team:
Applications can be made online or by phone through the government website.
Provide Information:
You’ll need to share details about your job, employer and the challenges you face.
Assessment:
In some cases, an Access to Work advisor may carry out a workplace assessment to determine the most appropriate support.
Funding Decision:
Once approved, the scheme will outline the financial contribution from both Access to Work and the employer (if applicable).

Why is Access to Work important?

Access to Work is more than just a funding scheme; it’s about empowering individuals to succeed and reducing barriers to employment. By offering tailored support, it ensures that people with disabilities or health conditions can contribute their skills and talents without being held back by unnecessary obstacles.

Need captioning support through Access to Work?

At 121 Captions, we work closely with individuals and employers to provide live captioning and other communication support services funded by Access to Work. Our team is experienced in helping clients navigate the application process and secure the support they need.

If you or your employer need guidance or want to explore how our services can be funded by the scheme, get in touch today. Let’s break down the barriers to communication and create an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.