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Navigating the workplace with a disability or health condition can feel daunting. But many people don't realise the Government's Department for Work and Pensions ( DWP ) offers a range of accessibility adaptations to help make things easier. Established in 1994 , the Access to Work scheme is designed to help people with disabilities or conditions get into employment or stay in their jobs. While the support offered varies depending on individual circumstances, it can include grants for practical help, such as travel costs if you're unable to use public transport, vehicle adaptations, or specialist equipment. You might also get mental health support , communication assistance for job interviews, or physical changes to your workplace, which can be at home if that works best for you. Applications aren't means-tested based on your earnings, and won't impact other benefits you receive. You may need to cover some initial costs, but these will be paid back later. However, the Government's website makes clear: "Access to Work will not pay for reasonable adjustments . "These are the changes your employer must legally make to support you to do your job. Access to Work will advise your employer if changes should be made as reasonable adjustments." If you're interested in applying for the Access to Work scheme, you must be a resident of England, Scotland , or Wales, as Northern Ireland operates a separate scheme. You must also be aged 16 or over and either currently in paid employment or due to start or return to work within the next 12 weeks. Paid employment can be either part-time or full-time. The scheme does not cover voluntary work but can include: Additionally, you must have a 'physical or mental health condition or disability that means you need support to do your job or get to and from work'. Whilst not exhaustive, the Government has outlined several examples where this may apply: Importantly, you don't require a formal diagnosis of your condition to make an application. Nonetheless, the Government adds: "You can get Access to Work and ESA at the same time if you work less than 16 hours a week. There are rules about working while claiming ESA. You can ask your work coach for advice and support." Anyone keen to apply for the Access to Work scheme can do so online or by calling 0800 121 7479. If you have difficulty speaking or hearing on the phone, contact Relay UK through 18001 and then 0800 121 7479. These lines are open from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday. You will need contact and workplace information, plus details on how your condition affects your work and what support you think you need to apply. Further information is available on the Government's website .
