Access to Work Grants

Access to Work is a a Government scheme available in England, Scotland and Wales ( not Northern Ireland) that provides financial support to help cover the extra costs that workers with disabilities or health conditions might face in doing their jobs. This support can include funding for special equipment, adaptations, transportation costs, and support workers, aimed at helping individuals overcome barriers to employment due to their condition. The programme not only aids in making workplaces more accessible but also supports employment retention and advancement for individuals with disabilities, fostering greater inclusivity and diversity in the workforce. Each person can claim up to £69,000 worth of grant funding per year.

Access to Work may cover up to 100% of the approved costs for new employees or those who have been employed for less than six weeks when they apply for the grant. For employees who have been in their roles for longer, the employer may need to contribute to the cost of the accommodations. The employer contribution is structured on a sliding scale based on the size of the organisation:

Small Employers: For small employers (fewer than 50 employees), Access to Work might cover the entire approved cost, requiring no contribution from the employer.

Medium and Large Employers: For medium-sized businesses (50 to 249 employees) and large businesses (250 or more employees), there is an expectation of a cost-share model. The employer is expected to pay the first £500 and a percentage of the costs up to a certain cap, which depends on the total cost of the accommodation