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Access to Work Programme

Asked by John McDonnellLabourDepartment for Work and PensionsTabled Answered 23 March 2026UIN 119819

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps his Department is taking to ensure that Access to Work enables Disabled people to remain in employment.

Answered by Sir Stephen Timms

In the Pathways to Work Green Paper, we consulted on the future of Access to Work and how to improve the scheme so that it helps more disabled people in work. We are considering all aspects of the scheme as we develop plans for reform following the conclusion of the consultation. In addition, available administrative data and management information will be utilised in shaping any proposals.

We have recently concluded (November) the Access to Work Collaboration Committees, in which we engaged with a range of stakeholders, including DPO representatives and lived experience users, to provide discussion, experience, and challenge to the design of the future Access to Work Scheme.

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