Yes, the UK government does provide support for people with various medical problems (including non-physical disabilities) to get to work, and this can include help with taxi fares. This support primarily comes through the Access to Work scheme.
Here’s how it works:
- Access to Work: This is a government grant scheme that provides practical and financial support to help disabled people (which includes a wide range of physical and mental health conditions, learning difficulties, and neurodivergent conditions) to get or stay in work.
- Eligibility: To be eligible, you must:
- Be 16 or over.
- Have a disability, illness, or health condition that means you need support to do your job or get to and from work. This condition must have lasted or be likely to last at least 12 months.
- Be in paid work, about to start paid work, or going to a job interview.
- Live and work in England, Scotland, or Wales (there’s a different system in Northern Ireland).
- Taxi Fares: Access to Work can provide funding for additional travel costs, such as taxi fares, if you cannot use public transport due to your medical condition or disability. You may need to provide medical evidence to support your need for taxis and might be asked to get quotes from taxi firms.
- What it covers: Beyond taxis, Access to Work can also help with:
- Specialist equipment and assistive technology.
- Support workers (e.g., BSL interpreters, job coaches, mental health support).
- Adaptations to your vehicle or workplace.
- Application: You apply for Access to Work yourself (not your employer). An assessor will then discuss your needs and determine what support can be provided.
It’s important to note that Access to Work is designed to cover costs that go beyond the “reasonable adjustments” an employer is legally obliged to make under the Equality Act 2010.
If you believe you might be eligible, you can find more information and apply on the GOV.UK website or contact the Access to Work helpline.