Access to Work Cuts Threaten Disabled Creatives Livelihoods 2026

Access to Work cuts are threatening the livelihoods of disabled creatives across the UK, as funding reductions make it impossible for many to continue their careers. The scheme, designed to cover reasonable adjustments, is being slashed, leaving professionals like TV writers without essential support.

The Vital Role of Access to Work for Disabled Professionals

Access to Work (AtW) provides grants to employers and self-employed workers to fund adjustments such as taxis, support workers, and assistive technology. For disabled creatives, this support is not a luxury—it is a lifeline that enables them to work on equal footing with their peers.

When Chris McCausland won Strictly Come Dancing in 2024, he highlighted the importance of opportunity and support. Yet, behind the scenes, AtW funding is being cut, and many disabled workers are losing the ability to perform their jobs.

How Cuts Affect a TV Writer's Daily Work

Consider a visually impaired television writer with 5% vision. They rely on AtW for taxis to attend meetings, rehearsals, and writers' rooms, and for a sighted guide when needed. In 2025, their grant was cut by 70%, and the travel pot was removed entirely. Without transport, they cannot network, collaborate, or deliver projects.

The DWP argued that self-employed workers can offset travel expenses against tax, but this only reimburses a fraction of the actual cost. This logic ignores the reality that many disabled workers face higher expenses and fewer opportunities.

Comparing Support Before and After Cuts

The Ripple Effect on the Creative Industry

Disabled creatives bring unique perspectives that enrich television, film, and theatre. When they are forced out of work, the industry loses diversity and authenticity. Shows like Sex Education and Call the Midwife have benefited from such talent, but without support, these voices are silenced.

Moreover, the cuts contradict the government's own disability employment gap targets. Investing in AtW is cost-effective—it enables disabled people to work, pay taxes, and contribute to the economy.

Key Takeaways

• Access to Work is essential for disabled creatives to perform their jobs.
• Recent cuts have reduced support by up to 70%, making work impossible for many.
• Tax offsets do not cover the full cost of necessary adjustments.
• Without action, the creative industry loses vital diverse talent.
• Advocacy and public pressure can help restore funding.

What You Can Do to Support Change

Contact your MP, share stories of affected workers, and support organisations like the Disability Benefits Consortium. Raising awareness is the first step toward reversing these damaging cuts.

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