Access to Work Waiting Times: What You Need to Know
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
If you've applied for Access to Work and are waiting to hear back, you're not alone.
Over the last few years, demand for the scheme has increased significantly. While Access to Work continues to provide vital support for thousands of disabled people and those with long-term health conditions, growing demand has also resulted in longer processing times and a larger backlog of applications.
Why are Access to Work waiting times increasing?
According to the National Audit Office (NAO), applications to Access to Work more than doubled between 2018–19 and 2024–25, increasing from approximately 76,100
applications to 157,000.
Although the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has increased staffing and investment in the scheme, demand has continued to outpace capacity, leading to longer waiting times and a growing backlog of applications.
How long does Access to Work take?
There isn't a single waiting time that applies to every application. Processing times vary depending on individual circumstances, the type of support being requested and the volume of applications being handled at the time.
However, official figures provide a useful indication of current pressures on the scheme.
In a Parliamentary written answer published in April 2025, the Government stated that:
The average waiting time for a decision in February 2025 was 84.6 days.
Across the period April 2024 to February 2025, the average waiting time was 56.9 days.
Around 62,000 applications were waiting to be processed in February 2025.
More recently, the National Audit Office reported that the average processing time during 2024–25 was 66 working days, with monthly averages reaching 109 working days during November 2025 as demand continued to increase.
These figures demonstrate the scale of the challenge facing the scheme, but they should not be taken as a guaranteed timescale for individual applications.
What can you do while you're waiting?
Unfortunately, there is often little applicants can do to speed up an Access to Work application. However, there are a few practical steps that may help while you're waiting for a decision.
Respond quickly if the DWP contacts you for further information, as delays in replying can slow down your application.
Keep copies of your application, correspondence and any supporting documents.
Talk to your employer about temporary support. Employers have a legal duty under the Equality Act 2010 to consider reasonable adjustments where appropriate and should not delay making adjustments simply because an Access to Work application is still being processed.
Plan ahead if you're approaching the end of an existing Access to Work award. Renewal applications can be prioritised, but applying as early as possible may help reduce the risk of a gap in support.
How Westminster Advocate Service can help
At Westminster Advocate Service, we support disabled people throughout the Access to Work process, including applications, renewals and ongoing claims.
While we cannot influence DWP processing times or speed up individual decisions, we can help you:
Understand the application process.
Prepare a clear and well-supported application.
Navigate requests for further information.
Understand your options if you have questions about your award or ongoing support.
Applying for Access to Work can feel overwhelming, particularly when delays are involved. Having experienced advocacy and guidance can help you approach the process with greater confidence while ensuring you understand your rights and the support available.
As official processing times and guidance can change, we recommend checking the latest information published by the Department for Work and Pensions alongside any advice you receive. Need support with Access to Work?
Whether you're applying for the first time, renewing an existing award or managing ongoing claims, Westminster Advocate Service can provide independent guidance and practical advocacy throughout the process.
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