Access to Work - entitlement and how does it fund?

Legwax

1. Access to Work - I applied last week because I had to cancel work as I had a mobility problem, pain! Not receiving treatment but am on waiting list. First time I had to cancel work and I felt bad for letting work down but put my health first. Mobility flucutates from me moving because I have to; moving in pain because I have to and now not being able to move enough to get to work. I only need cabs part of the way sometimes as I can live with pain on the bus. Does anybody else get cabs some of the way to work? I work pt and the cab fare will be about 4 times more than what I earn at work that day. I can't see how Access to Work will grant this.
2. Do they give money in advance? I would get receipts. Is that how it works? I can't afford to pay for transport up front and wait months to be reimbursed by DWP.
3. Thank you.

mix_dage

hi @Legwax

Perhaps this link will help you

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/access-to-work-factsheet/access-to-work-factsheet-for-customers#overview

best wishes

Legwax

@mix_dage Thank you for responding with the official information which is the best source usually I think. Much appreciated. I was hoping someone might be happy to let me know how it is paid and/or if they know if AtW would pay a cab fare which is going to be out of proportion in cost to what I am earning. I wouldn't, it's a waste of money! Well, I'm not an economist but still.

noonebelieves

@Legwax

I received long-term support from ATW between 2014 and 2022, and my experience was very positive. They provided 100% funding for equipment worth £4,000 to my employer (NHS).

Although I haven’t experienced it personally, I’ve heard from colleagues that ATW also funds travel if it’s an identified need to help you get to work and stay in your role. However, I’ve also heard current firsthand from my professional community that there are extremely long waiting lists.

Just thought I’d share, as I’ve only had positive experiences with this scheme! Wishing you the very best with your efforts 😊

Legwax

@noonebelieves Thanks very much for your message, it's nice to read of your positive experience! Wow, that's great you were supported to continue in your NHS role.

Yes, waiting list to be expected! I feel lucky to apply anyway and it's only there to help so fingers crossed. Thank you!

noonebelieves

@Legwax, thank you so much for your comment. Yes, the support I received from Access to Work (AtW) helped me continue in my NHS role until I experienced further health issues. I've battled extensively to keep my role open on long-term sickness for the past three years, with the support of an excellent trade union representative. I'm currently appealing a decision refusing my career break on grounds of discrimination (due to protected characteristics). The equipment AtW provided is still in place. I also forgot to add that when I explored a return to work in a redeployed role in 2023 and couldn't drive, my trade union representative mentioned contacting ATW, and they agreed to support transport to the workplace. I vaguely recall that the criteria were strict and funding was debatable.Sorry, I am unable to recollect the specific info as my memory isn't that sharp lately. Unfortunately, I couldn't pursue that option as my health deteriorated. To be honest, I don't know how long I can hold onto my current job as many disabilities are now permanent. I'm very keen to get off benefits, as the system can be discriminatory. Unfortunately, due to my disabilities, at present,I have no option but to keep fighting for my rights for myself and my family to survive. I wish you the very best with your ATW application and hope it helps you return to and retain your employment with reasonable adjustments. Best wishes 😊

(Apologies for the rant)

Legwax

Not read as a rant.

I empathise with your wish to be off benefits. Being financially independent is the route to life being much better, I find. I was interested to read all of that, it chimes with me as had similar journey. I hope you reach the options you are happy with and that are best for you and your family. Life's short, wish you the very best.