Dyslexia - Access To Work
Applying for help from Access to Work if you are dyslexic…
Do you have ongoing difficulties at work because of dyslexia, dyspraxia or other neurodiverse condition?
Did you know you can get help from the government? It costs nothing for you and if you work for a small employer probably nothing for them either.
The scheme is called Access to Work and was set up to help people with disabilities to do the best job they can. The scheme is open to self-employed people as well as those in paid jobs. Almost all people with Dyslexia can apply for help.
It is obvious that an interpreter will help a deaf sign language user communicate with their colleagues. But you may not know what will help you.
Access to Work can send an assessor to look at what you find difficult and suggest ways to improve things. That could include IT equipment, software, IT training, coaching advice and awareness training for your work management and colleagues.
However, If you know what you need you can tell ATW and perhaps not have an assessment.
To apply for Access to Work make a phone call to 0345 268 8489 or email [email protected]. If you want help with the form filling ask to do it over the phone.
So who will pay for the assessment? The good news is that the government pay for the assessment process.
And more good news, if you apply in the first six weeks of a new job or you work for a small employer the government will pay for any special help. If you work for a large employer there will be a grant for a proportion of any costs.
The stages in the process are:
1. Make an application by email, post or phone
2. Answer some basic questions about your employment and providing your NI number
3. Advising a contact at your employer about ATW
4. Discussing your needs with an ATW advisor
5. Meeting the workplace assessor at your workplace
6. Your employer reviewing the report and implementing the suggestions
7. your employer claiming the money
So that’s it … Access to work for people who are dyslexic… It may seem long-winded but it can all happen quickly and once ATW know about you they can help through the rest of your working life as you change jobs…
Give it a go and all the best!