DWP record of disabilities that will qualify for work journey prices and different help

On Apr 1, 2025

Launched in 1994, the Access to Work scheme is designed to help individuals with disabilities or conditions get jobs or stay in work

02:07, 01 Apr 2025

Midsection of young disabled woman using computer at home

You do not need a condition diagnosis to apply(Image: Maskot via Getty Images)

Entering the workforce with a disability or health condition may feel intimidating. But did you know the Government’s Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) can provide various accessibility adjustments to ease the process?

The Access to Work scheme, introduced in 1994, aims to support individuals with disabilities or conditions in securing employment or remaining in their current roles. While the specific assistance varies based on individual needs, it may include grants for practical support, such as travel expenses for those unable to use public transport, vehicle modifications, or specialised equipment.

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Additionally, applicants may receive mental health support, communication assistance for job interviews, or physical modifications to their workplace, which can be at home if best suits their requirements. Applications are not contingent upon salary, nor will they impact other benefits.

Depressed female professional in panic holding head in hands in front of laptop.

The Access to Work scheme can provide grants for practical support, such as travel costs if you can’t use public transport, vehicle adaptations or even specialist equipment(Image: Luis Alvarez via Getty Images)

Individuals may be required to pay some initial costs, but these will be reimbursed later. However, the Government’s website states: “Access to Work will not pay for reasonable adjustments.

“These are the changes your employer must legally make to support you to do your job. Access to Work will advise your employer if changes should be made as reasonable adjustments.”

To apply for the Access to Work scheme, you must reside in England, Scotland, or Wales, as a different scheme exists in Northern Ireland. You must also be at least 16 years old and in a paid job or scheduled to start/return to a job within the next 12 weeks.

A paid job can be either part-time or full-time. This does not include voluntary work but can include:

Work trial or work experience
Internships
Self-employment
Apprenticeships
Work placement
Employment

Lastly, you must have a ‘physical or mental health condition or disability that means you need support to do your job or get to and from work’. While it is not an exhaustive list, the Government has noted a few key examples where this might apply:

Bone fracture foot and leg on male patient with splint cast and crutches during surgery rehabilitation and orthopaedic recovery staying at home

You can apply for Access to Work with a temporary condition, such as a broken leg(Image: Chinnapong via Getty Images)

Importantly, you do not need a specific diagnosis to apply for the scheme. However, the Government adds: “You can get Access to Work and ESA at the same time if you work less than 16 hours a week. There are rules about working while claiming ESA. You can ask your work coach for advice and support.”

To apply for the Access to Work scheme, you may do so online or by calling 0800 121 7479. If you have difficulty speaking or hearing on the phone, contact Relay UK through 18001 and then 0800 121 7479. These lines are open from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.

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Applying requires contact and workplace information, plus details on how your condition affects your work and what support you might need.

Additional details can be found on theGovernment’s website.