DWP set to cut back scheme which 542,840 are signed up to
The Department for Work and Pensions Access to Work scheme is is set to be cut back for up to 542,840 people. DWP changes mean 542,840 working people may no longer be able to access this help, it has been warned, as the Cost of Living crisis continues.
From April, all civil servants will no longer be eligible for mental health support under the scheme. The scheme defines civil servants as: “Employees of a government department, executive agency, Arm’s Length Body, the devolved governments of Scotland and Wales and some Non-Departmental Public Bodies (NDPBs).”
The DWP says: "Access to Work Mental Health Support Service (AtW MHSS) is available for people in work who have a mental health issue or condition that impacts their ability to work. DWP will check the eligibility of all individuals applying for AtW MHSS.
READ MORE: State pensioners who didn't get Winter Fuel Payment notice £200 bonus payments in bank accounts
READ MORE: DWP breaks silence after pensioners have payments reduced by £12,750
READ MORE Met Office warns over 'powerful' weather shift and issues exact date it starts
"To receive AtW MHSS support, eligibility conditions must be satisfied. More information regarding eligibility can be found at Access to Work: get support if you have a disability or health condition (Eligibility) and Access to Work: staff guide (Eligibility).
"Support is also available for opportunities that will help disabled people get ready for employment such as apprenticeships, supported internships and work trials. Participants on the Work and Health Programme (WHP), WHP Pioneer, Restart and Fair Start Scotland are not eligible to use the AtW MHSS. It is the responsibility of the Providers of those provisions to source and fund all appropriate mental health support for Customers who require it whilst on these programmes.
"Civil Servants will no longer be eligible to use AtW MHSS from 1 April 2025. This is in line with the eligibility requirements for the rest of Access to Work. Civil Servants are defined as employees of a government department, executive agency, Arm’s Length Body, the devolved governments of Scotland and Wales and some Non-Departmental Public Bodies (NDPBs).
"Public Sector Employees/Public Servants, such as NHS England Employees, police, local government employees and employees of NDPBs are not civil servants and therefore will remain eligible for AtW MHSS."