Access to Work…or Delayed Access to Work?

The government’s Access to Work scheme has been a lifesaver for thousands of people with hearing or sight loss. It has enabled them to enter or remain in the workforce or become self-employed and earn an independent income whilst boosting self-esteem and mental health but unfortunately, it now involves lengthy delays.

Access to Work DWP cutbacks

Ironically, in part because of its popularity, it is bulging under a strain with which it can barely cope and financial cutbacks are also causing a dent in availability. Reduced resources from the DWP have put the system under significant pressure and the wait for assessments can be many months. The mounting pressures on the government scheme, long delays in assessments and getting equipment and workplace adjustments in place, mean many new and existing employees remain inactive or face extended accessibility challenges, leading to job loss in some cases. Support workers are also experiencing lengthy delays in receiving their pay which can lead to these valuable individuals seeking more secure employment.

A quicker solution

It doesn’t have to be a long drawn-out and complicated process as there is a simple solution. There are excellent companies such as Visualise Training and Consultancy that can provide a specialist workplace assessment followed by a comprehensive recommendations report in a matter of days.

Private assessments are open to all

A private assessment doesn’t involve a huge outlay and employers will not be subject to days of disruption as it is carried out by an experienced professional who is familiar with disability issues. Furthermore, the process will be pleasant and non-confrontational when listening to concerns and addressing them. Access to Work is one way to improve accessibility and inclusion for employees with hearing or sight loss, but if the wait is too long, you may wish to consider a private workplace assessment which can be completed in days, rather than months.

Find out more

To find out more or make a referral, visit https://visualisetrainingandconsultancy.com/workplace-assessments or email [email protected]