The government owes hundreds of thousands of pounds to businesses that employ disabled individuals, leading to fears of potential staff layoffs. The Access to Work scheme allows companies and employees to apply for grants to support disabled workers in the workplace. However, businesses are experiencing backlogs and significant payment delays, leaving them financially strained. One company revealed it is owed almost £200,000 by the Access to Work scheme, raising concerns about potential closure.
Yateley Industries, a charity in Hampshire that employs nearly 60 individuals, most of whom have disabilities, is among those affected by the backlog, with £186,000 owed to them by the scheme. Chief Executive Sheldon McMullan expressed concerns about the impact of these delays on their operations, highlighting the bureaucratic hurdles they face in accessing the granted funds. The problems with the Access to Work scheme are posing a significant threat to the employment of disabled individuals, according to Steven McGurk, president of the Community Union trade union.
In Newton Abbott, a cafe that employed people with learning disabilities recently closed due in part to new restrictions and issues with the Access to Work scheme. Founder Sarah Thorp highlighted the scheme’s refusal to fund work experience for individuals recommended by the local Job Centre, resulting in a weekly shortfall of £800 for the cafe. Despite government rhetoric emphasizing the importance of employing disabled adults, delays and restrictions within the Access to Work scheme are hindering the process.
Lucy Earle, a social media executive with various disabilities, faced challenges accessing suitable support from the Access to Work scheme. Despite the scheme’s assistance in helping her remain employed, she encountered delays and refusals for reasonable requests. The Minister for Social Security and Disability acknowledged that changes are needed to reform the Access to Work scheme due to its current shortcomings. The Department for Work and Pensions assured that efforts are being made to expedite outstanding payments to businesses and streamline the claims process for employees with high in-work support needs
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