Frequently Asked Questions

Your questions answered - support when you need it the most.

What is Access to Work (AtW)?

Access to Work is a UK government scheme that provides practical support to help people start, stay in, or return to work if they have a disability, long-term condition, or workplace-related barrier. The support is focused on removing practical obstacles so you can do your job effectively.

What kind of support can Onyx provide through Access to Work?

Onyx provides practical, workplace-based support, including:

Assistive technology
Specialist note taking
Neurodiversity and learning support
Physical, sensory, and mobility-related adjustments
Job task analysis and reasonable adjustment planning
Return-to-work and role transition support

Who is Access to Work support for?

Access to Work may be suitable if you:

Have a disability, long-term condition, or neurodivergent profile
Are struggling with practical aspects of your role
Need adjustments, equipment, or changes to how you work
Are returning to work or changing roles and need support with adjustments

You don’t need to be in a new role, support can be provided at any stage of employment.

Do I need a diagnosis to access support?

Not always. Access to Work looks at workplace impact, not just diagnoses. Support is based on how your condition or needs affect your ability to do your job, rather than labels alone.

What happens during an Access to Work assessment?

The assessment focuses on:

Understanding your role and working environment
Identifying practical barriers you’re experiencing
Discussing what’s already working and what isn’t
Recommending reasonable, realistic adjustments

The conversation is collaborative, supportive, and adapted to your role.

What types of equipment might be recommended?

Depending on your needs, recommendations may include:

Specialist IT equipment
Ergonomic chairs, desks, or accessories
Speech-to-text or text-to-speech software
Screen readers or magnification tools
Alternative keyboards, mice, or input devices

All recommendations are practical and specific to your role.

How does neurodiversity support work?

Onyx provides workplace-focused neurodiversity support, such as:

Dyslexia-friendly tools and strategies
ADHD organisation and prioritisation support
Autism-friendly workplace adjustments
Communication and workflow strategies

The focus is on making work clearer, more accessible, and easier to manage.

Can Onyx help with reasonable adjustments?

Yes. Onyx can:

Recommend reasonable workplace adjustments
Create clear adjustment plans
Help employers understand how to implement changes
Review adjustments if your role or needs change

What if I work remotely or hybrid?

Onyx can support with:

Home and workplace visits
Hybrid working arrangements
Remote support

Support is tailored to how and where you work.

Can Onyx help if I’m returning to work?

Yes. Onyx can support:

Phased or gradual returns to work
Practical adjustments to support capacity
Task planning and workload structuring

This support focuses on practical and physical needs, not mental health provision.

Will my employer be involved?

Usually, yes, but only as appropriate. Onyx can:

Liaise with your employer or HR team
Help ensure adjustments are realistic and workable

Your needs and comfort are always respected.

How long does the process take?

Timescales vary depending on Access to Work and employer processes, but once your support with Onyx Support is confirmed, we aim to get you allocated to a support worker within 48 hours.

What if my needs change over time?

Support isn’t a one-off. Adjustments can be reviewed if:

Your role changes
Your working environment changes
Equipment or strategies need updating

How do I get started?

You can:

Apply directly to Access to Work via the gov.uk site, or
Speak to your employer or HR team for support with the application

Once Access to Work is approved, Onyx can provide the agreed support.

What makes Onyx different?

Practical, reliable support from a friendly and responsive team
Focus on real workplace solutions
Over 20 years experience supporting a wide range of needs
Clear communication with employees and employers