Understanding The Access To Work Scheme

Understanding The Access To Work Scheme

 

Navigating school or the workplace with dyslexia or other neurodivergent conditions can be wrought with challenges. However, there is a wide range of support available, with one of the most valuable resources being the government’s Access to Work scheme.

Here at The Dyslexia Shop, we’re on a mission to empower everyone through innovative products designed to help those with dyslexia. We’re also able to support businesses with their Access to Work requirements, from proforma invoices to guiding you every step of the way.

What is the Access to Work scheme?

The Access to Work scheme is a government-funded initiative designed to support people with a physical or mental health condition, including neurodiversity, in gaining or staying in employment. It provides practical and financial support for needs that aren’t already covered by an employer's duty to make reasonable adjustments.

The scheme can be used for a wide range of support, including things such as specialist equipment like text-to-speech soft and reading pens, support workers, communication support, mental health care and even travel costs for those who cannot use public transport.

For individuals with dyslexia, this means providing access to assistive technology that can help make everyday tasks more manageable and help your team unlock their full potential.

In order to be eligible for the grant, a Workplace Needs Assessment needs to be completed, which will then provide the employer and employees with a detailed report that contains a list of recommendations and suppliers.

Who can apply?

The Access to Work scheme is eligible for a wide range of conditions, and you can apply if:

• You have a disability, learning difficulty or mental health condition
• Are aged 16 and over
• Live and work in England, Scotland or Wales.
• Are in full or part-time paid employed, are self-employed or are about to start a job or work trial.

 

There is no need for a formal diagnosis in order to apply, however being able to provide supporting information can help the application process.

How The Dyslexia Shop can help

Here at The Dyslexia Shop, we are here to support you every step of the way. We stock a wide range of assistive equipment and products designed to help those with dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia and other learning conditions achieve their best. Whether it is coloured overlays and text-to-speech software to organisational tools and educational resources, we have everything required to support you or your employees.

We know that understanding the Access to Work scheme can be a little daunting at first. That is why our team is here to help you throughout the process. Not only are we able to help you find the best equipment, but we can also support you with getting quotes and invoices for funding approval through proforma invoices.

A proforma invoice is a preliminary bill of sale that is sent in advance of a shipment or delivery, so that you can use it to submit part of your claim, ensuring funding can be approved before you complete your purchase.

To find out more about our Access to Work support or to start transforming your workspace, get in touch with our team today who will be happy to help you get started!