Benefits & Access to Work

Financial support and workplace adjustments for people with hearing loss

Access to Work

Access to Work is a government scheme that provides practical and financial support to help disabled people, including those who are deaf or have hearing loss, stay in employment or start working.

The scheme can fund a wide range of support to help overcome barriers in the workplace related to your hearing loss.

What Can Access to Work Pay For?

  • BSL Interpreters: For meetings, training, and interviews
  • Lipspeakers: For those who use lip-reading
  • Speech-to-text reporters: Real-time captions in meetings
  • Assistive technology: Specialist equipment and software
  • Communication support: Note-takers and support workers
  • Travel costs: If you need support to get to work

How to Apply

Check eligibility: You must be employed, self-employed, or about to start work

Contact Access to Work: Call 0800 121 7479 or apply online

Assessment: They’ll assess your needs and decide what support you require

Receive support: Get the equipment or services you need

Need help with your application?

RNID can provide guidance and support throughout the Access to Work application process.

Benefits & Financial Support

Personal Independence Payment (PIP)

PIP helps with extra living costs if you have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability, including hearing loss.

  • Daily living component: £72.65 to £108.55 per week
  • Mobility component: £28.70 to £113.70 per week
  • Not based on income or savings
  • Reassessed periodically
Attendance Allowance

For people over State Pension age who need help with personal care or supervision due to disability or illness.

  • Lower rate: £72.65 per week
  • Higher rate: £108.55 per week
  • Not means-tested
  • Can be claimed alongside other benefits
Disability Living Allowance (DLA)

For children under 16 with disabilities or health conditions requiring extra care or supervision.

  • Care component: £28.70 to £108.55 per week
  • Mobility component: £28.70 to £113.70 per week
  • Not means-tested
  • Transitions to PIP at age 16
Universal Credit

If you’re on a low income or out of work, you may be entitled to extra payments through Universal Credit.

  • Limited Capability for Work element
  • Carer element if you care for someone
  • Childcare costs support
  • Means-tested benefit

Additional Support & Concessions

Blue Badge Scheme

If your hearing loss affects your mobility, you may be eligible for a Blue Badge for parking concessions.

Council Tax Reduction

Some local councils offer discounts on council tax for people with disabilities, including severe hearing loss.

TV License Concession

If you receive Attendance Allowance, you may qualify for a discounted TV license.

Travel Concessions

Many transport operators offer discounts or free travel passes for people with disabilities.

Prescription Exemption

If you receive certain benefits, you may be exempt from prescription charges.

Energy Bill Support

Some energy companies offer special tariffs and services for people with disabilities.

Getting Help with Benefits

Navigating the benefits system can be complex. RNID offers free, confidential advice and support to help you access the financial support you’re entitled to.

We can help you with:

  • Understanding what benefits you’re entitled to
  • Completing application forms
  • Gathering supporting evidence
  • Preparing for assessments
  • Appeals and mandatory reconsiderations

Contact Our Benefits Team

Phone: 0808 808 0123

Email: benefits@rnid.org.uk