Access to work

What is access to work?

If you want to work but have a disability that makes working a problem you may be able to get help from the access to work scheme. This provides practical advice to help you overcome these problems. It can also give you grants towards extra employment costs.

Who can get help?

You can get help if you are employed or self-employed, and you are disabled. This employment can be full time, part time or temporary.

“Disabled” has the same meaning as in the Disability Discrimination Act which defines disability as 'a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on [your] ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities'

“Disabled” can also include disabilities that are only apparent in the workplace. An example of this might be where you started work and found that your eyesight was affected by computer screens but had not noticed this problem before you started work.

What help is available?

Access to Work will pay up to 100 per cent of the approved costs of:

• fares to work if public transport can’t be used (all extra costs covered);
• a support worker (e.g. a reader) to provide help in the workplace;
• a communicator for support at job interviews.

Access to work also offers other help, which includes special aids or equipment for employment and adaptations to premises and existing equipment. In some case the support offered is not 100%. However you will get up to 100 per cent of all approved costs if you are:

• unemployed and starting a new job
• working for an employer and have been in the job for less than six weeks
• self-employed

Otherwise, if you have been in your job for 6 weeks or more when you first apply for help, access to work will cover up to 80% of approved costs above £300 and below £10,000, and all costs above £10,000.

How do I claim it?

Contact your local Jobcentre or Jobcentre Plus office and ask to talk to an access to work adviser or a Disability Employment Adviser (DEA) for advice and an application form.

How long does it last?

As long as you need it. Initially you will be given help for a period up to a maximum of three years. Once this period has finished you can re-apply and continue to get the help as long as you satisfy the rules.

Where can I find out more?

You can get more information on access to work on the Jobcentre Plus website at www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk/JCP/Customers/HelpForDisabledPeople/AccesstoWork/

Updated July 2009