New “Right to Try” Rules Could Open More Opportunities for Disabled People

The UK government has recently announced new “Right to Try” rules, which are aimed at helping disabled people feel safer exploring work and volunteering opportunities, and reducing the fear of immediately losing their benefits. 

For many people living with disabilities, returning to work is not only about motivation or accessibility. Theres also a strong sense of uncertainty... What happens if I try working and it doesn’t work out? Will I lose the support I rely on?

Under the new rules, starting work or volunteering will no longer automatically trigger a benefit reassessment for people receiving certain disability-related benefits, including PIP and the health element of Universal Credit. 

While disability organisations have welcomed the changes as a positive step, many have also pointed out that barriers still exist - including inaccessible workplaces, inflexible employers, long delays in support systems, and negative attitudes towards disabled people in employment. 

Its important to remember that independence can look very different from person to person. For some, it may mean returning to paid work. For others, it could mean trying volunteering for the first time in years, building confidence socially, exploring new routines, or simply having the freedom to test what is actually possible. That’s why supportive environments are absolutely vital to people re-entering the workforce, in any capacity.

Additionally, having the right PA can make a huge difference when navigating new opportunities, whether through support with transport, help managing fatigue and routines, building confidence attending new places or providing flexible day-to-day assistance. 

The conversation around disabled employment often focuses only on statistics, but behind every number is a person trying to balance health, energy, finances, accessibility, and quality of life. At PAPool, we believe independence should mean having choice, flexibility, and support that works for you.

Whether that’s employment, volunteering, social activities, education, or simply living more independently day-to-day, everyone deserves the chance to explore what’s possible safely and without judgement.