Access2Work

If you’ve been in a road traffic accident (RTA) and are struggling to continue working due to injuries or lifestyle changes, Access2Work can help. This UK government program offers financial and practical support to people with disabilities or health conditions, allowing you to stay in work with the adjustments you need.

This guide will explain Access to Work, how it can support people recovering from an RTA, and how to apply for it.

What is Access to Work?

Access2Work program helps people with health conditions or disabilities stay in work. It offers financial support and assistance for things like:

• Making changes to your workplace (e.g., new furniture or equipment)
• Covering extra travel costs if your condition makes it hard to use public transport or drive
• Providing communication aids, such as interpreters or special devices for work

Who Can Apply for Access to Work?

To apply for Access2Work, you must meet these criteria:

1. Health Condition or Disability: You must have a disability or health condition (such as injuries from an RTA) affecting your workability.
2. Employment: You must be employed, self-employed, or about to start a job.
3. Residency: You must live in the UK and have the right to work.

Types of Support Available

Access2Work provides several types of help:

1. Workplace Adjustments:
   • Equipment: Financial help for things like ergonomic chairs or special technology.
   • Modifications: Changes to your workplace, like installing ramps or accessible toilets.
2. Travel Support:
   • Travel Costs: Help with taxis or other transport if you can’t use public transport or drive.
   • Public Transport: Funding is needed to help you use public transport if your condition makes it difficult.
3. Communication Support:
   • Interpreters: Help with communication needs, like a sign language interpreter or speech-to-text software.
   • Assistive Technology: Funding for devices that help you communicate at work.

How to Apply for Access to Work

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for Access2Work:

1. Assess Your Needs
Think about what support you need to do your job. This could include things like:

• Special equipment
• Changes to your workplace
• Travel help or communication support

2. Contact Access to Work

• By Phone: Call Access to Work to discuss your needs and get the application forms.
• Online: You can start your application through the Gov.uk Access to Work page.

3. Complete the Application
Fill out the form, giving details about:

• Your disability or health condition
• Your job and how it’s affected
• The support you need

Include any supporting evidence, like medical reports or information from your employer.

4. Assessment
Access to Work may arrange an assessment to review your needs. This could involve:

• A specialist visiting your workplace
• A phone or video call to discuss your needs

5. Receive Support
Once your application is approved, you will get the support or funding you need, such as:

• Adjustments to your workspace
• Travel assistance
• Communication aids

How Access to Work Helps People Affected by an RTA

If you’ve been in an RTA, Access to Work can make a big difference in keeping your job and managing your condition. Here’s how:

1. Helps You Stay in Work

• Workplace Adjustments: Changes to your work environment (like special chairs or desks) can help you work more comfortably.
• Travel Assistance: Support with travel costs or transport options if your injury makes it difficult to get to work.

2. Reduces Costs
Access to Work can help cover the cost of adjustments and support, easing the financial burden on you and your employer.

• Cost Coverage: Help with paying for necessary workplace changes or travel.
• Employer Support: Access to Work may help small businesses or employers adjust.

3. Promotes Independence

• Mobility Support: Travel assistance makes it easier to get to work and reduces the impact of your condition on your job.
• Confidence: Access to Work can help you feel more in control of your work and life.

4. Improves Job Satisfaction
Access to Work can help make your job more comfortable, leading to greater job satisfaction and a better working experience.

• Custom Support: Access to Work tailors solutions to meet your needs, helping you do your job well.
• Supportive Environment: Providing the right help makes your workplace more understanding and supportive.

Additional Resources

If you need more help with Access2Work, here are some useful resources:

• Gov.uk Access to Work: For more information and to apply online.
• Disability Rights UK: Offers advice on disability rights and employment support.
• Citizens Advice: Provides free, confidential advice on employment and disability benefits.