Access to Work Funding

Access to Work is a government initiative in the United Kingdom that provides financial assistance and support to individuals with disabilities or health conditions to help them access and maintain employment. 

You need to be employed, or self-employed to access the funding. The program aims to reduce barriers in the workplace and enable individuals to perform their jobs effectively.

Access to Work funding can cover a wide range of support services, accommodations, and equipment necessary for individuals with disabilities to carry out their work. Here are some examples of the types of support it can provide:

1. Workplace Adaptations: Funding can be used to modify or adapt the physical environment of the workplace to make it more accessible. This may include working from home or from a different location, or adjustable desks to allow standing.
2. Assistive Technology: Access to Work can contribute towards the cost of specialised equipment or assistive technology that helps individuals perform their job tasks. Examples include tablets, noise-cancelling headphones, screen readers, hearing aids, ergonomic keyboards, or software to help with planning and organisation.
3. Support Workers: Funding may cover the expenses of support workers or job coaches who can assist individuals with disabilities in the workplace. This can include ADHD coaches, virtual Assistants, communication support, personal assistance, or sign language interpreters.
4. Transport: Access to Work can provide financial assistance for additional transportation costs incurred due to a disability or health condition. This may include taxi fares, specialised transport services, or vehicle adaptations.
5. Mental Health Support: Funding can support individuals with mental health conditions, providing access to counseling, therapy, or other mental health support services.

The exact level of funding and support provided through Access to Work is determined on an individual basis, considering factors such as the nature of the disability, the individual's job requirements, and any existing support available.

It's important to note that Access to Work funding is not means-tested, meaning it is available regardless of income or savings but you do have to be in employment, The aim is to enable individuals with disabilities or health conditions to overcome workplace barriers and achieve sustainable employment.

To get Access to Work funding, follow these steps:

1. Determine Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for Access to Work funding. It is available for individuals in the United Kingdom who have a disability or health condition that affects their work. It is important to remember that you do not need a diagnosis to consider yourself to have a disability.
2. Contact Access to Work: Get in touch with the Access to Work team. You can call them at 0800 121 7479 (Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm) or visit their official website (www.gov.uk/access-to-work) to find more information and initiate the application process.
3. Application Submission: Complete the Access to Work application form. This form gathers information about your disability or health condition, your job, and the support you require. Be thorough and provide accurate details.
4. Supporting Documentation: Gather any necessary documentation to support your application, such as medical records, assessments, or reports. Attach these documents to your application to strengthen your case.
5. Assessment and Approval: Access to Work will review your application and assess the level of support you require. It may take up to six months for this to happen, They may request additional information or assessments if needed. The decision will be based on your individual circumstances.
6. Funding and Support: If your application is approved, you will receive funding and support based on the assessed needs. Access to Work may provide financial assistance to cover the cost of accommodations, equipment, or support workers, including virtual assistants or ADHD Coaching. The exact amount of funding will depend on your circumstances.
7. Reviews and Adjustments: Access to Work conducts periodic reviews to ensure that the support provided is still suitable. If your circumstances change, such as a new job or changes in your health condition, inform Access to Work so they can adjust the support accordingly.
8. Maintain Communication: Stay in touch with Access to Work and keep them informed of any changes or issues you encounter. They are there to assist you and can provide guidance throughout your employment journey.

This is a general overview of the process. It's essential to consult the official Access to Work website or contact them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the application process and specific requirements.