Access to Work: Boosting Employment for Disabled

0:00Local headlines in two minutes or less, you're tuned in to Leicester News today. The Access to Word program from the Department for Work and Pensions helps people with health conditions or disabilities get extra support at their jobs. It offers grants up to 69,260 pounds a year for things like specialist equipment or support worker. On average, grants come in around 4,000 pounds annually, or 10,500 pounds if you need a support worker, which works out too, about 200 pounds a week. Demand for the program has doubled since the 2018-2019 financial year, along with spending. The department has set aside 321 million pounds for 2024-2025. Right now, it can take up to 37 weeks to process applications. Officials say they prioritize cases when someone has a job starting within four weeks or another urgent reason. The program's permanent secretary noted big shifts in the types of health issues people

1:00are seeking help for, thanks to changing workplaces and more. Varied needs. Reasonable adjustments cover a wide range from physical aids to adapted work methods, and you do not need an official diagnosis to qualify. Conditions like physical disabilities, learning differences, altism, ADHD, chronic illnesses, temporary injuries, or mental health challenges can make. You eligible. Applications are straightforward through the government website, and the team is working to cut those long wait times while handling the growing. Demand.