If you are already working or have a job offer

Access to Work is a government grant scheme which is aimed at supporting disabled people to take up or remain in work. Grants can be given for a wide range of interventions that help to break down barriers to work. For example:

• communication support at job interviews
• a reader for somebody with a visual impairment
• a specialist job coach for a person with a learning disability
• specialist aids and equipment
• awareness training for colleagues
• help towards taxi fares for someone who cannot use public transport
• alterations to premises
• access to a mental health support service.

To qualify for the scheme, you must be aged 16 or over and have a disability or health condition (physical or mental) that makes it hard for you to do parts of your job or travel to and from work. You must also be employed or self-employed; have received a job offer; or be on an apprenticeship, traineeship, supported internship, work trial or work experience. Support is also available for job interviews.

The amount of money you can get will depend on your circumstances. It doesn’t have to be paid back and will not affect their other benefits (although specific rules apply to young people who receive Employment Support Allowance).