Understand the Eligibility Criteria
Dyslexia is covered under this programme, but it’s important to confirm that you meet other criteria, such as being in or about to start paid employment and having a disability that affects your work.
Get a Detailed Assessment
Request a comprehensive assessment of your needs. Access to Work may provide a specialist advisor who can assess how dyslexia impacts your work and recommend appropriate adjustments. This could include assistive technology, software, or other support tailored to your needs.
Contact the Access to Work Service
Reach out to the Access to Work helpline to start your application. You can contact them by phone or online. The helpline can guide you through the application process and answer any questions you may have about what to include and how to submit your request.
Specify Your Needs Clearly
When filling out your application, be specific about the adjustments or support you need. This could include software or technology to assist with reading and writing, additional time for tasks, or training for your colleagues to understand dyslexia. The clearer you are about your needs, the better the support.
Follow Up and Review
Stay in touch with Access to Work and your employer to review the effectiveness of the adjustments and support provided. If your needs change or if the current solutions are not working as expected, you can request a review to update or modify the support plan.
The Access to Work programme in the UK provides support for people with disabilities, including dyslexia, to help them remain in work or start a new job. By following these tips, you can better access the support available through the Access to Work programme and create a work environment that accommodates your dyslexia.