Business owner Stephanie Ward challenges claims that influencers encourage fraud via Access to Work.
This scheme can offer up to £69,000 yearly, helping with workplace support and equipment. Some say influencers caused more self-diagnosed people to get funds.
Stephanie Ward received her ADHD diagnosis at 32. She now helps disabled adults with job aids via the Access to Work scheme. Stephanie disagrees with the negative “sickfluencer” idea.
Stephanie is from Bedlington. She states people suggest influencers push unqualified claims, but headlines should focus on helping others get assistance. Instead of accusing influencers of encouraging fraud, they are pushing people to get legitimate benefits. She notes people learn of Access to Work by word of mouth.
Reports say people get free items via the scheme, including headphones, smartwatches, and work coaches. Stephanie says that headphones are less common now, as they are considered a normal business expense. Also, she hasn’t seen anyone get an Apple watch, though they are given out occasionally.
Apple products are scarce. Macs are more cost-effective with accessibility software, which helps those struggling with technology. This avoids giving them a lot of tech and a Windows laptop.
Access to Work does not pay for therapy. Mental health support exists, but it’s proactive and not therapeutic. People identify traits of autism or ADHD, which are not mental health conditions. They face long wait lists and need help now.
Access to Work uses a social model of disability, managing symptoms, not just labels, like managing back pain with pain killers and rest. The strategies for autism traits work for anyone, but work even better for people with autism.
Stephanie says Access to Work is cutting back funds, but the money can improve lives. Her own support grant was cut by half, and she must find £24,000 to cover support costs. She contributes double her grant in VAT each year.
Access to Work can be life-changing, but funding cuts mean it’s not as good as before. Still, it’s important that people know about it, as half the help can still make a difference.
Stephanie feels some people are hating on the disabled. They use this as an excuse to dislike them more. The government wants people in work, not on benefits, and this scheme helps people with disabilities work.
