Access to Work…or Delayed Access to Work?
Dan Williams
Workplace Assessments for Employees living with sight or hearing loss or other disabilities. Staff training
By Dan Williams
The government’s Access to Work scheme has been a lifeline for thousands of individuals with hearing or sight loss, enabling them to join or remain in the workforce, become self-employed, and earn an independent income. This has significantly boosted their self-esteem and mental health. However, the scheme is currently plagued by lengthy delays, undermining its effectiveness.
Access to Work DWP Cutbacks
Ironically, the scheme's popularity has led to its current struggles. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has reduced resources for Access to Work, causing the system to buckle under significant pressure. As a result, the wait for assessments can extend to many months. These delays prevent new and existing employees from accessing necessary equipment and workplace adjustments, leaving them inactive and facing prolonged accessibility challenges. In some cases, this even leads to job loss. Additionally, support workers are experiencing delays in receiving their pay, prompting many to seek more stable employment elsewhere.
A Quicker Solution
The process does not have to be long and complicated. Companies like Visualise Training and Consultancy offer a quicker alternative, providing specialist workplace assessments and comprehensive recommendations reports within days.
Private Assessments are Open to All
Opting for a private assessment is not as costly as one might think, and it minimizes workplace disruption. Experienced professionals conduct these assessments, ensuring that the process is pleasant, non-confrontational, and attentive to individual concerns. While Access to Work remains a valuable resource for improving accessibility and inclusion, those facing long waits might consider a private workplace assessment for a faster resolution.
Find Out More
For more information or to make a referral, visit Visualise Training and Consultancy or email [email protected].
#AccessToWork #WorkplaceInclusion #DisabilitySupport #VisualiseTraining #Accessibility #EmploymentSupport
Staff Disability Adviser at University of Leicester
8 个月DWP will still take months to look at an assessment of needs carried out privately. So it only cuts out part of the delay. I think an advantage might be more likely to have some oversight and clarity and hopefully accountability for the recommendations. Recently DWP advisers refused to fund a needs assessment and just said a deaf member of staff could have funding for a few hours of BSL support at ￡25 an hour!!!!!! Its taken over 8 months to argue with DWP that this rate is impossible. Another big issue is inappropriate devices and software Access to Work assessors recommend, mainly devices and products with T's and C's or data storage issues are just two examples. Doing it right in the first place (and accepting feedback) could cut out some of the delay by reducing fixing un workbale decisions.
Ergonomics Innovator ?? Sit-Stand Desk Expert ?? Hybrid & Homeworking Specialist ?? Workplace Blogger, Podcaster & Speaker
8 个月Well done for highlighting this, Dan Williams
Microsoft Certified PL-300 Power BI Data Analyst | Passionate About Data Visualisation & Insights
8 个月I think it is time for the DWP to create a mini bank, which could be called the Access to Work Loan Company, or to merge this scheme with Universal Credit.