Access To Work – General

Access To Work – General

Access To Work (ATW) is a government scheme run by Jobcentre Plus. A2W covers the financial cost of disability solutions that go beyond “reasonable adjustments.” Employers have a legal obligation to make “reasonable adjustments” for their disabled employees under the Equality Act 2010.

How does A2W work?

A2W is a grant offered for additional expenses incurred by disabled people to overcome work-related obstacles.

Who is A2W for?

Disabled people either entering paid employment or already employed. It also applies to unemployed and self-employed people in any job: full time, part-time, temporary or permanent.

How can Microlink help employers?

Microlink understands how to navigate the A2W process to help our clients manage the claims without delays and complications.

Who is eligible?

Anyone with a disability or health condition which affects their ability to perform a job, whether:

• In a paid job
• Unemployed or about to start a job
• Unemployed or about to start a Job centre Plus arranged work trial
• Self-employed

The A2W Process:

1. Contact A2W
   Contact 2W Operational Support Unit for your area. They will ask you a few eligibility questions. If you are, an A2W 1 form will be completed over the phone and sent to you. Check it, sign and return it to them.
2. Assessment
   Upon receipt of the form you will be assigned an A2W Adviser. Your Adviser will contact you by phone to assess your needs and situation. Your Adviser will also speak with your employer.
3. Report & Recommendations
   A confidential report will be sent to the A2W Adviser. Suitable adjustments, equipment or support you may need will be suggested. It will also provide costs and suppliers. You and your employer will receive copies. After discussing this with your Adviser, an approval letter detailing the agreed funding will be sent to you and your employer.
4. Re-imbursement
   The final stage is your employer purchasing the agreed solution and then claiming the approved grant back from A2W. The claim form is included with the approval letter.

NOTE: If you are self-employed, you act as the employer.

How much will A2W provide?

The amount of help varies depending on:

• Length of employment
• The support you need
• Whether you are self-employed

A2W can pay up to 100% of the approved costs if you are:

• Unemployed and starting a new job
• Self-employed
• Working for an employer for less than six weeks

Whatever your employment status, A2W will also pay up to 100% of the approved costs of help with:

• Support workers
• Fares to work
• Communicator support at interviews

Employer Contribution:

• 1 to 9 employees: no contribution
• 10 to 49 employees: pay the first £300 and 20% of costs up to £10,000
• 50 to 249 employees: pay the first £500 and 20% of costs up to £10,000
• 250 or more employees: pay the first £1,000 and 20% of costs up to £10,000