Access to Work appointees still cannot submit online claims
People appointed to manage someone else’s Access to Work claims cannot use the scheme’s online service on that person’s behalf, DWP has confirmed. The restriction affects a support scheme available to eligible disabled workers in Wales as well as England and Scotland.
Exploration, rather than an opening date
In a written parliamentary answer dated 12 October, minister Sir Stephen Timms said the system depends on individual identity checks through GOV.UK One Login. DWP says this protects personal information and the integrity of claims. The department plans to start work exploring the appointee barrier in the second half of the 2027-28 financial year. That is a proposed start for examining options, not a commitment that appointees will gain online access by then. The answer gives no launch date.
What remains available
Timms says telephone contact and Relay UK remain alternatives for customers unable to use the online service. The announcement does not close Access to Work or mean every customer is barred from its online system. The scheme can help with practical workplace support such as specialist equipment, support workers and travel. Eligibility depends on the individual’s work and support needs; the official guide is linked below.
Contact and accessible information
GOV.UK lists the Access to Work helpline as 0800 121 7479, Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. For Relay UK, dial 18001 followed by that number. The guidance also links a British Sign Language video relay service, and the main guide is available in Welsh. Check the official eligibility and application pages before applying.
Background and supporting figures
Where this sits
Individual One Login checks enable customer access but do not support appointees; DWP attributes this to security.
Telephone and Relay UK alternatives remain now, compared with exploratory digital work planned for second half of 2027-28. No delivery deadline given.