Work and Access Scheme Updated: Key Changes for May 2026

The Department of Social Protection has issued updated guidelines for the Work and Access scheme, introducing several important changes to how supports are accessed and administered.

Work and Access is a government scheme designed to help disabled people get a job or stay in employment. It provides practical supports to remove or reduce barriers in the workplace — from communication assistance and personal readers to equipment grants and physical workplace adaptations — available to jobseekers, employees, self-employed people, and employers.

The most significant change is a shift in who can apply for two key supports. Employees can no longer apply for Workplace Needs Assessment or In-Work Support. Both must now be applied for by the employer.

The Communication Support/ISL process has also been simplified. The WA5 form no longer exists — once a person is approved in principle, they no longer need to notify DSP in advance of individual interpreting events. Instead, the interpreter submits an invoice after the event, and the Deaf person or their nominated booking officer confirms it took place. DSP will cover VAT on Communication Support/ISL where charged; VAT on Workplace Needs Assessment, In-Work Support, Work Equipment, and Workplace Adaptation is not covered by DSP — this is a matter between the employer and Revenue.

Eligibility for 90% funding under Disability Equality and Inclusion Training has been extended, and updated quotation thresholds now apply across Work Equipment, Workplace Adaptation, and Training supports.

Two updated application forms are now in use. The WA1 is for individuals (including self-employed people) applying for Communication Support/ISL, Personal Reader, or Work Equipment. The WA2 is for employers or self-employed people applying for Workplace Needs Assessment, In-Work Support, Workplace Adaptation, Disability Equality and Inclusion Training, or Communication Support/ISL where it is required in the context of a Workplace Needs Assessment or In-Work Support.

For full details, visit theWork and Access web pages, review the operational guidelines, or access the updated application forms.