What is a Workplace Needs Assessment?

If you’re not completely sure what support you need from Access to Work, you should be offered an independent Workplace Needs Assessment. An expert assessor will recommend specific support to help you carry out your job.

How does the referral work?

Your Case Manager will usually arrange a Workplace Needs Assessment after confirming your identity and eligibility. They’ll use details about your job, health conditions, and the difficulties you face to make the referral – so make sure this information is up to date.

Timelines are strict:

•    Once the referral is sent, the assessor has 8 working days to contact you, arrange the assessment, conduct it, and return the report.

•    If you haven’t booked an appointment by 4pm the next working day, the referral closes, and your Case Manager must start again.

To avoid delays:

•    Keep your phone and email handy until your appointment is confirmed

•    If you’ll be unavailable during the 8-day window (for example, on leave), agree a different referral date in advance

What happens in the assessment?

Most assessments are online, but they can be in person if needed – for example, to see your workplace or if that’s your preferred access method.

•    Online assessments last around 40–60 minutes

•    In-person meetings can take up to 2 hours

•    You can have someone with you, such as a support worker, colleague, family member, or advocate

The assessor will ask about:

•    Your role and typical tasks

•    Your working environment and IT set-up

•    Your conditions or diagnoses

•    The tasks you find difficult and strategies you’ve tried

•    Any support or equipment you think might help

They’ll discuss their recommendations with you, which may include:

•    Software, equipment, or subscriptions

•    Training or coaching

•    Support workers

•    Workplace adaptations

•    Travel support

Tip: Make sure recommendations will work in your organisation. Before the meeting:

•    Check with IT about software installation limits

•    Note your device model, operating system, internet browser, and key software

•    Invite IT to join the last few minutes to confirm compatibility

•    Bring quotes or supplier details if you already have them

What happens after the assessment?

The assessor sends a report to your Case Manager. You’ll usually only get the recommendations and supplier section – ask for the full report if you want it.

The report will:

•    List recommended support items

•    Include 1–3 quotes for each item (except support workers and taxi journeys)

Your Case Manager uses this report as evidence when deciding on funding. They are not required to fund all – or any – of the recommendations.

You can read about common reasons Brain in Hand and other support items may be declined in our Help Centre.