Access to Work:

Supporting Employees with Disabilities

Access to Work is a government-funded program specifically designed to assist individuals who have disabilities or health conditions that may affect their ability to work. This program offers valuable support to help you maintain your employment by providing tailored recommendations and necessary adjustments based on your unique individual needs.

A comprehensive Workplace Needs Assessment will be carried out to thoroughly identify the most appropriate recommendations that can effectively support you in your job and help create an inclusive work environment.

What support is available?

Access to Work provides support for a variety of workplace adjustments, including:

1. Workplace Adjustments:

Access to Work can fund a variety of workplace adjustments, such as:

  • Ergonomic office equipment (e.g., adapted desks, chairs, keyboards)

  • Assistive technologies (e.g., screen readers, dictation software)

  • Modifications to the work environment to ensure accessibility (e.g., wider doors, ramps)

2. Support Workers or Job Coaches:

Access to Work can help with the cost of hiring a job coach or support worker, who can:

  • Assist with daily tasks or guide you through complex work-related activities

  • Help with adapting to the work environment or providing on-the-job training

  • Offer emotional support in challenging work situations

3. Communication Assistance:

For individuals with hearing or speech impairments, Access to Work may fund services such as:

  • Sign language interpreters

  • Communication support workers

  • Note-takers or transcription services

4. Mental Health Support:

Individuals with mental health conditions can receive tailored support, which might include:

  • A dedicated job coach or mentor to help with work-related challenges

  • Support for managing stress, anxiety, or other mental health concerns in the workplace

5. Travel Assistance:

If a disability or health condition makes it difficult to travel to work, Access to Work can provide:

  • Funding for transportation costs (e.g., taxis, accessible public transport)

  • Support workers to assist with travel

  • A travel allowance for those who are unable to use public transportation due to their disability

Eligibility for Access to Work

How to Apply for Access to Work:

  • You can apply online through the Access to Work website or by calling the Access to Work helpline. The application process involves providing information about your disability or health condition and how it affects your work.

  • Once your application is received, a dedicated Access to Work case manager will contact you to discuss your needs and assess the type of support required. They will help you determine what adjustments or services will benefit you most.

  • Based on the assessment, an individualised support plan will be created. The Access to Work case manager will work with you to identify funding options, and you’ll be provided with clear details on how the support will be provided.

  • Once approval has been granted, the necessary adjustments, equipment, or support services will be arranged and put into place to support you at work.

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