Disabled workers see Access to Work grants slashed by up to 85%
Claims that the Access to Work programme is cutting grants dramatically have prompted a DWP statement that it is hiring staff to clear backlogs.
Disabled claimants say the Access to Work programme, which funds equipment, travel and support workers, has reduced their awards by as much as 85 percent, leaving many struggling to maintain their businesses and health. One self-employed creator who uses a wheelchair described the reduction as a "massive toll" on her finances and mental health, while another deaf council employee said the loss of a support worker was "deeply demoralising."
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) responded that demand for the scheme has risen sharply, with the number of supported individuals almost doubling over five years and a backlog of 60,000 pending applications. It has hired close to 500 additional staff to address the delay and urges anyone dissatisfied with a decision to seek a reconsideration. No formal appeal exists, but claimants can ask a different case manager to review their award.
Why it matters
The cuts threaten the ability of disabled workers to stay employed and financially independent.
How the sides frame it
MODERATE AGREEMENTLeft-leaning coverage stresses the personal hardship and emotional impact of the grant cuts, while centrist coverage emphasizes the DWP’s response, backlogs and program details.
LEFT
Frames the story as a severe hardship for disabled workers, highlighting the “massive toll” and “deeply demoralising” effects of up-to-85% cuts.
CENTER
Frames the story around the DWP’s reaction, noting the scale of cuts, the backlog of applications and steps taken to address the issue.
The left emphasises
- "massive toll" on finances and mental health
- "deeply demoralising" loss of support
- grants cut by up to 85 percent
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