Over 2,000 more disabled people were supported to keep or get a job compared to last year, official figures show.
The Department for Work and Pensions latest statistics reveal that 22,760 people were being supported through Access to Work between April and June this year – and increase of 10%.
The scheme provides financial help towards the extra costs faced by disabled people at work, such as support workers, specialist aids or equipment and support to travel to work.
A total of 31,400 disabled people were supported through Access to Work last year, and the updated statistics show the highest level of new claims since 2007.
Minister of State for Disabled People Mike Penning said: “Access to Work offers unique and tailored help so that disabled people can have the same choice of jobs as everyone else – in every sector, from hairdressing to engineering and everything in between.
“This is about supporting disabled people to fulfil their aspirations in the workplace. I would urge disabled people who are looking for work, or need more support to stay in their job, to find out how this scheme can help them.”
Businesses with up to 49 employees no longer pay a contribution towards the extra costs faced by disabled people in work – saving them up to £2,300 per employee who uses the fund.
