The RNID DeafATW survey showed that many people are facing new restrictions on how they can use their award. These limits can make it harder to match support to actual work needs. The most common restriction is a fixed weekly hour limit, with no flexibility to carry unused hours across weeks.
AtW has told us that if this restriction is causing problems, you can contact them to request a Change of Circumstances and ask for the restriction to be removed, explaining why you need flexibility.
If you are renewing your AtW award, DeafATW advises that you always submit an up-to-date SWROT form. It can also help to include wording like:
“I need to continue to have a flexible award, as the nature of my work and disability means some weeks require significantly more interpreting or other support than others. I will manage my overall budget across the award period to ensure I stay within my allocation.”