The Access to Work scheme helps fund specialist equipment, support workers including BSL interpreters, and the costs of travelling to work for people with health conditions and disabilities.  

Pat McFadden, secretary of state for work and pensions, said: ‘Access to Work is a lifeline for disabled people and those with health conditions, helping them to start and stay in work, but when I came to the DWP it was clear there was a major issue with people waiting for a decision. 

‘That's why I'm taking action to clear the backlog, because we know that the right support can change lives.  

‘This is part of our wider commitment to move from a welfare state to a working state, building an economy that works for everyone.'

Demand for the scheme has surged in recent years with around 60,000 applicants awaiting a decision. 

The new case managers will receive extensive training to handle complex applications, ensuring disabled people receive timely support to secure and sustain employment.

Alongside recruitment, the Government said it was already prioritising cases where applicants are due to start work within four weeks.