Access to Work has helped thousands of Deaf professionals access the support they need to excel in their careers. The Government scheme provides funding for workplace adjustments and communication support.
Yet many find the application process daunting, with its various stages and requirements often seeming complex and overwhelming. Understanding how it works and what to expect can make accessing this valuable support much more straightforward. The process is more manageable when broken down into clear steps, from initial application to implementing your support package.
This blog will walk you through the Access to Work journey, helping you understand each stage and how to get the most from this essential scheme.
What is Access to Work?
Access to Work is a Government initiative that helps disabled people in the UK get and keep employment. For Deaf people, it provides vital funding for workplace support that go beyond their employer’s legal obligations for reasonable adjustments. The scheme can cover various support needs, from BSL interpreters for meetings to specialist equipment and workplace modifications. This might include funding for:
- Communication support workers
- Video remote interpreting services
- BSL interpreters for meetings, training and events
- Visual alert systems
- Adaptations to existing workplace equipment
- Travel costs if you can’t use public transport
While employers must make reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010, Access to Work helps fund additional support that might be too costly for employers to provide. It creates more opportunities for Deaf people to thrive in their chosen careers.
Before you apply
Before starting your application, check your eligibility. You must be over 16, in paid employment (or about to start), and have a disability or health condition that affects your ability to work. Self-employed individuals can also apply.
Start by discussing your needs with your employer. Consider what support would help you perform your role effectively, such as BSL interpreters for meetings and training, specialist equipment or workplace modifications
Document specific situations where you need support. It helps build a clear picture of your requirements. Remember, Access to Work funds support beyond the ‘reasonable adjustments’ employers must legally provide.
Starting your application
You can apply online through the Government’s Access to Work portal or by phone. If you prefer to communicate in BSL, use our free InterpretersLive! service to support your application.
When applying, you’ll need:
- Your National Insurance number
- Workplace address and contact details
- Employment details (start date, hours, contract type)
- Your line manager’s contact information
- Details of your support needs
- Information about any existing workplace adjustments
Be specific about how your Deafness affects your work and what support would help. Include examples of workplace situations where you face barriers. If you already know what support you need, include cost estimates from potential providers.
The assessment process
After submitting your application, an Access to Work adviser will contact you to discuss your needs. They might arrange a workplace assessment, either in person or virtually, to understand your working environment and requirements better.
The assessment is your opportunity to explain your daily tasks and challenges, demonstrate your existing coping strategies and discuss potential solutions. You can also share any supporting documentation you might have and ask questions about the support you need at work.
The assessor will also speak with your employer about implementing and managing the support. This process typically takes several weeks, though urgent cases (like job starts) can be expedited.
Understanding your award
Access to Work will base its decisions on your specific needs and circumstances. Your award letter will detail:
- Approved support
- Maximum funding amounts
- Duration of support
- Any employer contributions required
- Claims process
For equipment or modifications, Access to Work usually covers the full cost for new employees. For existing employees, larger employers may need to contribute. Communication support, like interpreting services, is typically fully funded regardless of employment status.
Managing your support
Once approved, work with your employer to implement the support.
For interpreter bookings, establish clear processes for scheduling and confirming assignments. For equipment, ensure proper installation and training. Make sure you keep records of:
- Support hours used
- Costs incurred
- Receipts and invoices
- Impact on your work
- Any issues or challenges
Submit your claim promptly and accurately to avoid payment delays. Many providers can invoice Access to Work directly, simplifying the process.
Making changes and renewals
Review your support regularly. If your needs change, contact Access to Work to request adjustments. You may be eligible for additional support if your role or working patterns change, you take on extra responsibilities, or new workplace technology becomes available.
Most awards need to be renewed every three years. Start the renewal process early to ensure continuous support. Keep evidence of how the support has helped your work performance to support your renewal application.
How can Sign Solutions help?
Under the Equality Act 2010, all employers are responsible for supporting and enabling their Deaf employees to access opportunities at work.
Whether you’re an employee or an employer, Sign Solutions can help pave the way for a more diverse and enriched working environment.
We provide BSL interpreting and translation services in-person or online, plus expert consultancy, including Access to Work advice, to help ensure your organisation is as accessible as possible.
All the skilled BSL interpreters we work with are DBS-checked and NRCPD-registered and can provide a high-quality service to Deaf people across the UK.
To find out more and for expert advice on which type of communication support will meet your needs and whether you can fund it through Access to Work, call us on 0843 178 0773, email atw@Signsolutions.uk.com or contact us via a BSL video interpreter.
