Sycamore Disability and Business

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Sycamore Disability and Business

Access to Work Adviser | Helping Claimants, Support Workers and Employers

31/07/2025

Stepping back from posting regularly on here...

After some reflection, I’ve decided to step away from this account and focus my time and energy elsewhere, like my website, LinkedIn, and email list.

If you’ve found value in any of the resources here, I’m so glad, and they’ll still be here for you to browse. Just a heads up: this page won’t be updated going forward.

If you’d like to stay connected, send me a DM with your email and I will add you to the list and you can connect with me on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alice-hastie-316903257/

You can also join either of my free Facebook groups ⤵️

1️⃣ Access to Work Support Workers: A group for Support Workers, Coaches and other professionals who work with Access to Work claimants, or who are interested in starting to work with Access to Work claimants.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/787537895678311

2️⃣ Access to Work Claimants: A group for anyone who is interested in applying for Access to Work, is part-way through an application or already has an award.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1456047218643642

Thanks for being here.

09/06/2025

A couple of weeks ago, I received leaked info from a DWP insider about operational delivery changes to Access to Work.

While officially “not policy changes,” these updates will have a BIG impact on:
→ Claimants (new + existing)
→ Employers
→ Service providers

These changes were due to go live on the 6th May…
But AtW staff have been told to pause, possibly due to political pressure.

Here’s what we're hearing about the potential changes:

- No funding for basic equipment like ergonomic chairs, headphones, reading software, and even productivity tools like Remarkables

- Hard caps on support worker rates (regardless of real costs)

- Strict new limits on who qualifies for Job Aide support

- No flexibility if costs go up mid-award — claimants will have to cover the difference

Now’s the time to act!

Email your MP and ask them to speak up. This could still be stopped or reviewed.

05/06/2025

Applying for Access to Work can feel… stressful.

The questions are vague. The pressure to “get it right” is high.

And when you’re already juggling health stuff, work stuff, and life stuff, filling in a complicated form can feel like the final straw.

That’s why I created this free Access to Work Application Template + Record.

It’s designed to help you:
- Plan your answers before you apply
- Follow the structure of the actual form
- Get tips on how to explain your needs clearly
- Keep a record for future reference or follow-ups

Download it for free here: https://sycamorebusiness.co.uk/?download_file=2967&order=wc_order_rPKNHcf3hCv8f&uid=a7229d15e8b59347cf4c596f4e17c337e796a87656115f349c3c3f329fd9e69a&key=0dea8270-6eb5-40b4-8813-72a5631baefe

12/05/2025

Filling out a Support Worker Record of Task form and not sure where to start?

Here’s the approach I use with my clients...

I ask them to answer 8 key questions to clearly explain what the task is, how they struggle with it, and why they need human support (not just tech).

This isn’t about just listing tasks. It’s about showing why you need support, what you’ve already tried, and how a support worker will make a meaningful difference.

Be specific. Give examples. Explain what happens if you don’t get support.

That’s the kind of info that helps Access to Work say “yes”.

And if you need some support, feel free to reach out.

28/04/2025

You can apply for support from Access to Work while on sick leave to help you return to work, but your employer will need to be involved in the process - to confirm your employment situation and then to implement the funded support.

You should be referred for a Workplace Needs Assessment to help identify the support you need to return to work such as:

- Workplace adjustments to make your role more accessible
- Specialist equipment or software to remove barriers
- Travel support if commuting is difficult

And don't forget, you can apply for mental health support any time without your employer finding out. Simply self-refer to the Access to Work Mental Health Support Service with either Maximus or Able Futures.

03/04/2025

A lot of people assume they have to wait for their renewal date to request additional support, but that’s not how it works!

If you need new support - like a Support Worker, taxis, or new software - you should submit a new application as soon as possible.

If you need to increase existing support = such as more Support Worker hours, extra taxi journeys, or higher costs for your current support - you’ll need to raise a Change of Circumstances request instead.

Delaying could mean going without the help you need for months, so it’s best to act as soon as possible.

Need guidance on how to do this? Feel free to get in touch.

11/03/2025

Wondering what kind of support Access to Work can offer?

If your disability or health condition makes work harder, AtW can help - but many people don’t realise what kinds of support are available.

From specialist equipment and workplace adjustments to mental health support and travel costs, there are so many ways AtW can help support you in your work.

But knowing what to ask for (and how to ask for it) can be overwhelming.

If you’re unsure what support you might be eligible for, I can help you figure it out!

Swipe through to see what kind of help is available ➡️ and DM me if you need guidance on your application.

27/02/2025

Access to Work applications can be a lot.

Forms, phone calls, chasing Case Managers - it’s not always straightforward.

Some people thrive on that admin life, but for others, it’s overwhelming, stressful, and just too much.

If you’re struggling with the process, you don’t have to do it alone. I offer 1:1 support to help take the stress out of your application - just DM me, and let’s chat.

If you’re happy handling it yourself but want a space to ask questions and learn from others who’ve been through it, my free Facebook group is the perfect place. Drop me a message, and I’ll send you the link!

03/02/2025

Not sure how long an Access to Work award lasts?

Awards typically run for 1 to 3 years, but 12-month awards are becoming more common, so it’s good to be prepared to renew annually.

I always recommend submitting your renewal application early - ideally 12 weeks before your current award ends - to avoid any gaps in your support.

Need some help with your renewal? DM me to find out more about my support services.

15/01/2025

Thinking about applying for Access to Work but feeling unsure about what support you need?

You don’t need to have all the answers before you apply.

Sometimes a workplace assessment can make all the difference, but you might need to ask for it. I've also found learning from others’ experiences can help you get the right support in place.

If you’re looking for ideas or want to connect with others who’ve been through the process, I’ve got a FREE Facebook group just for this.

Drop me a DM, and I’ll send you the link.

08/01/2025

Worried about how applying for Access to Work might involve your employer?

Here’s how it works:

You’ll need to provide a workplace contact on your application to confirm your role and the tasks you perform. If you’re not ready for them to be contacted, you can request to hold off - this keeps you in control of the process.

However, delaying employer contact could make accessing support harder down the line. But don’t worry - nothing happens without your consent.

If your employer is contacted, they won’t be given details about your health or diagnosis. Their role is simply to confirm your job and how the requested support aligns with your duties.

If you’re feeling unsure about navigating this process, send me a DM and I can talk you through my support options.

02/01/2025

Did you know Access to Work can cover coaching?

Coaching can help you build coping strategies, manage tasks more independently, and rely less on other types of support such as a support worker.

The good news is, that you don’t have to go with the AtW suggested provider.

You can choose a coach who really understands you and what you need - so long as they fit the budget.

Would coaching make a difference for you at work? Or have you had a great experience with a coach before? Let me know in the comments!

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http://www.sycamorebusiness.co.uk/

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