Opening Doors to Employment: Major Work and Access Updates Announced for May 2026
- May 21
- 3 min read
A significant step forward in creating inclusive workplaces across Ireland has been unveiled this May, with key updates to the Work and Access programme set to make it easier than ever for disabled people to enter, remain, and thrive in employment. These changes bring improved clarity, streamlined application processes, and enhanced supports for both individuals and employers—positioning the programme as a vital tool for social and economic inclusion.
What is Work and Access?
Work and Access is a comprehensive suite of supports designed to remove barriers in the workplace. It empowers disabled people to access employment opportunities, sustain meaningful careers, and contribute fully to the workforce—while supporting employers to build inclusive, diverse workplaces.
This latest update reflects a commitment at national level to align employment supports with accessibility, equality, and workforce participation goals.
Expanded Supports for Individuals
For jobseekers, employees, and self-employed individuals, Work and Access offers practical, tailored assistance:
Communication Support / ISL (Irish Sign Language):
Access to interpretation services for interviews, onboarding, and ongoing work. This includes:
Pre-interview and interview support
Up to 12 hours for induction
Up to 24 hours of in-work support
Personal Reader:
Assistance for visually impaired individuals who require someone to read work-related materials.
Work Equipment Grant:
Funding of up to €12,000 for tools or assistive technologies to support productivity in office or remote environments.
Strengthened Supports for Employers
Recognising the key role employers play in driving inclusion, the programme introduces targeted supports to enable organisations to respond effectively to workforce needs:
Workplace Needs Assessment:
Identifies necessary adaptations for employees, with funding up to €2,500.
In-Work Support:
Helps employees perform at their best, with annual funding of up to €12,500.
Workplace Adaptation Grant:
Covers structural or environmental modifications, with support up to €25,000.
Disability Equality and Inclusion Training:
Builds organisational awareness and capacity, with funding up to €20,000 annually.
Key Policy Changes You Need to Know
This update introduces several important administrative and operational changes:
Major Change
Employers now lead applications for Workplace Needs Assessments and In-Work Supports, streamlining responsibility and improving efficiency.
General Improvements
Simplified language, now using ‘disabled people’ consistently
Expanded glossary and clearer guidance throughout
Reduced administrative burden and shorter documentation
Communication Support Enhancements
Simplified application process—no pre-notification required
Removal of the WA5 form
Interpreters now submit invoices directly after confirmed services
VAT Clarification
VAT is covered by DSP for Communication Support (where applicable)
VAT for other supports is the responsibility of employers and subject to Revenue guidance
Improved Funding Access
Expanded eligibility for 90% funding for inclusion training
Clearer travel cost guidance for service providers
Updated Application Process
To improve accessibility and ease of use, two revised application forms are now available:
WA1 Form (Individuals): For Communication Support/ISL, Personal Reader, and Work Equipment
Includes new consent sections for:
Employer-managed support arrangements
Authorised representatives or advocates
WA2 Form (Employers & Self-Employed): For Workplace Needs Assessments, In-Work Support, Workplace Adaptation, Inclusion Training, and related Communication Support needs
Why This Matters for Communities and the Economy
For disabled people, these updates mean faster access to essential supports and greater independence in the workplace.
For employers, they present a clear, structured pathway to inclusivity, backed by financial support and expert guidance.
For funding bodies and policymakers, the refined programme demonstrates measurable progress towards national inclusion strategies, labour market activation, and equality obligations.
For the media, this announcement highlights a strong policy shift towards accessibility, inclusion, and economic participation—an issue that resonates across communities and industries.
The Department has also released social media posts on:
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/p/DX_v20mDCIR/
Please feel free to share.
Looking Ahead
The May 2026 update to Work and Access reinforces Ireland’s commitment to removing barriers and creating equal opportunities in employment. As more individuals and organisations engage with the programme, its impact is expected to grow—supporting stronger communities, more inclusive workplaces, and a more resilient economy.
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