What is Access to Work?

If you live in England, Scotland and Wales

Access to Work (ATW) is a scheme run by Jobcentre Plus that provides advice and practical support to disabled people to enable them to work alongside their colleagues despite their disabilities.

Access to Work could benefit you if you have a disability and are:

  • In a job or about to start one
  • Self-employed
  • About to start a work trial

It applies to any paid job, part-time or full time, permanent or temporary and there is no minimum number of hours to be eligible for support under the scheme. 

The amount Access to Work will contribute towards certain costs will depend on the size of the organisation you work for and how long you have worked there. As the rules on eligibility and how ATW can help change regularly, if you are in doubt, please contact them directly.

To start a claim, or discuss your needs, contact the Access to Work Operational Support Unit:

  • 0800 121 7479
  • 0800 121 7579 (Textphone)

Please note they only accept referrals by phone or via their website.

If you live in Northern Ireland

The Disability Employment Service (DES) can provide:

  • Special aids and equipment
  • Adaptations to premises and equipment
  • Support workers
  • Travel to work
  • Help towards other in-work costs

To apply for the scheme, contact an Employment Service Adviser at your local Jobs and Benefits office or JobCentre.

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