Reapplying for Access to Work
Summary
Reapplying for Access to Work can be tricky, so it's vital to know how to do it well so you get what you need. It's good to think about...
Reapplying for Access to Work can be daunting. When I first applied for Access to Work, I had a rough idea of the support I needed, but after working with my support team and learning more about my business, I gained a clearer understanding of what truly helps me thrive. If you’re considering reapplying, you’re probably in the same position, knowing more about what works, what doesn’t and what could make a real difference in your work life. This blog is here to give you the confidence to ask for what you need while ensuring you follow the rules of the scheme.
The Reapplication Process: What to Expect
Reapplying for Access to Work isn’t as daunting as it may seem. It’s about demonstrating why your current support remains essential or why you need adjustments based on your evolving work needs. In my case, I had to consider whether my funding might be reduced and have honest conversations with the people who support me about what we could still make work. Having open discussions with your support providers is key. If your funding changes, knowing what’s possible within your budget will help you continue to get the most value out of your support.
Understanding Value: When reapplying for Access to Work, looking beyond the Price Tag is key!
One critical lesson I’ve learned is the importance of truly understanding the value of support rather than simply looking at the price. There’s significant variation in pricing for similar-sounding services and this can be misleading. For instance, two personal assistants might have the same job title, but their actual offerings can be worlds apart. It can be tempting to provide the lowest quotes to Access to Work, thinking this will make your application more attractive. However, this approach can be shortsighted and potentially costly in the long run. A cheaper service that doesn’t meet your specific needs can end up costing you more in time, productivity and frustration.
When evaluating support, consider:
- The specific skills and expertise of the support provider
- Their understanding of your unique work challenges
- The range of services they offer
- Their flexibility and ability to adapt to your changing business needs
- References and proven track record
Remember, Access to Work wants to ensure their funding is used effectively. This means finding a support solution that genuinely helps you be more productive and successful, not just the cheapest option available.
When reapplying for Access to Work thinking about Managing Payments, Cash Flow and Budgeting for Support is key
One important aspect of Access to Work funding is understanding the financial flow. In my case, I pay for support in advance and then claim the money back. The time it takes to be reimbursed varies, so planning for cash flow is essential. It’s also important to remember that the people you work with will have their own payment terms and they’ll need to be paid accordingly. This might need to be negotiated, but what matters most is understanding who can carry the risk and ensuring you have enough contingency in place to manage any delays.
Let me share my personal example: there was a time when I forgot to sign the Access to Work form, it was just an oversight because I was too busy. That small mistake delayed the payment by 30 days, which could have caused a cash flow issue. Luckily, I had built enough contingency to handle it, but it reinforced just how crucial it is to have a financial buffer in place. When reapplying, consider how your budget is structured and whether you need to adjust your claims to reflect changes in your business. If your support provider helps with different aspects of your work (such as marketing, admin or coaching), make sure your claim reflects this accurately.
The Value of Outsourcing: Focus on Strengths
The support I receive covers essential areas of my business including marketing like social posts, writing, design, scheduling, newsletters and proofreading. By outsourcing these, I can focus on revenue-generating tasks such as coaching, speaking and supporting my clients. This not only keeps me working at my best, but also means my business is more sustainable and contributes more financially (including through taxes). It’s a win-win.
A key takeaway is to identify the areas where support allows you to be most productive. If administrative work, for example, slows you down due to challenges like dyslexia, outsourcing it can free you to focus on what you do best.
Collaboration and Continuous Improvement
A great working relationship with your support team can lead to even more efficiencies. In my case, my support provider not only helps with tasks but also contributes ideas for blogs and processes that improve my workflow, like our social media planner. When reapplying, consider how your support is not just maintaining but enhancing your work.
Tying It All Together
If you’re reapplying for Access to Work, reflect on what you’ve learned since your initial application. Be confident in requesting the support that genuinely helps you perform at your best.
For more guidance, check out my previous blog on applying for Access to Work, and keep an eye out for our revamped ebook, where we’ll dive even deeper into these topics!