When it comes to determining the best fit for your Access to Work (ATW) support worker, there's a commonly held misconception: that the person must have a professional background, be certified, or be affiliated with an agency or official body. The truth is simpler and more empowering.

Your Needs, Your Choice

You know best what kind of support you need. It's your journey and your experiences that determine what assistance feels right. Remember, the only person whose opinion matters is yours alone. So, you have every right and the power to pick the person who best understands and can meet your needs. The beauty of this process? There's no rigid mould your support worker has to fit. If they're right for you, then they're right for the job.

When you decide on a support worker, that decision is a commitment between you and that person. ATW understands this and won't dictate or limit who you should pick for the role. Simply put, they trust your judgment about who's best to support you on your terms.

Broadening Your Horizons

With so many online options available, you're not just limited to local talent. Searching online opens up a plethora of individuals with diverse skill sets. You could discover someone with the exact expertise you need — perhaps a freelancer who's made an impact with their online portfolio or content.

If you're the head of your business, it's perfectly reasonable to consider hiring through traditional routes by placing a job advert. But here's a tip: if you're leaning towards this approach, discuss it with ATW before they finalise your grant. By doing this, you streamline the process, ensuring that ATW has all the details they need to create your grant in the most helpful way for you.

For those employed elsewhere, your employer might have a suggestion or even be inclined to hire someone with the express purpose of assisting you. Again, early conversations with your employer can pave the way for a smoother grant finalisation with ATW.

Considering someone you know personally? Absolutely. A friend with whom you've collaborated well in the past or a family member who's been your go-to support might just be the perfect fit. It's a practical choice, and if they've been assisting you, it's also an opportunity for them to be recognised for their support too.

But your search doesn’t have to be limited to the United Kingdom. We live in a world where remote collaboration is the norm. So, if the person who fits your support requirements happens to live in another country, why not? Just make sure you're aware of payment norms, potential fees, and the exchange rates. It's important that they're compensated fairly for their region.

The Power of the Right Support

Now that you're armed with the right information, it's time to find that support worker who truly understands and complements your needs. To ensure a smooth and informed decision-making process, consider these key takeaways:

• Start conversations early. If you're considering hiring someone as an employee, whether you run your own business or you’re employed by someone, make sure to discuss your plans with ATW at the outset. Clear communication can make the grant finalisation process smoother for everyone involved.

• Set your support worker up for success. If you're leaning towards a support worker who might not be familiar with ATW's procedures, help them get off to a good start. Make sure you clearly explain to them how they will be reimbursed, and let them know about any important details of your ATW grant that could have an effect on them too, such as the list of tasks ATW approved for them, their hourly rate, and how many hours a week they will work.

• Don’t rush the process. Choosing the ideal support worker isn't just some admin task. It’s something that will have a knock-on effect on everything you do at work. I've witnessed firsthand the life-changing impact having the right support can bring about. It's the difference between merely getting by and genuinely thriving in the workplace. So my final advice is this: take the time you need to find someone who understands, resonates with, and elevates your potential at work.

I wholeheartedly believe in your success and am cheering for you every step of the way. If you embrace the journey ahead, I know that you will get the right support you need.