1. What is Access to Work?

Access to Work is a government scheme that can provide funding for practical support if you have a disability or long-term health condition that affects you at work. This includes many neurodivergent conditions such as ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia and Tourette syndrome.

Funding can help pay for things such as:

• ADHD or workplace coaching
• Specialist equipment or software
• Assistive technology
• Mental health support
• Communication support
• Travel where public transport isn't suitable
• Other workplace adjustments

The support recommended depends on your individual needs.

2. Before You Apply

Have the following ready:

• National Insurance number
• Workplace details
• Manager's contact details (if applicable)
• Information about your role
• Your diagnosis (if you have one) or details of your condition
• Examples of how your condition affects your work

3. Think About Your Barriers

Rather than focusing on your diagnosis, think about the tasks you find difficult.

For example:

Instead of..."I have ADHD."  Describe..."I struggle to prioritise competing deadlines."

Instead of..."I'm autistic."  Describe..."Unexpected changes to my schedule significantly affect my productivity."

Instead of..."I'm dyslexic."  Describe..."Reading lengthy reports takes considerably longer than my colleagues."

Specific examples are much more helpful than general statements and show the impact on your working life. 

4. Consider What Would Help

You don't need to know exactly what support you need, but it helps to think about what might improve your work.

Examples include:

• Coaching
• Specialist software
• Noise-cancelling headphones
• Speech-to-text software
• Planning tools
• A workplace assessment
• Flexible working adjustments

5. Complete the Application

Applications can be made online through the GOV.UK website. Here: Access to Work: get support if you have a disability or health condition: Apply for an Access to Work grant - GOV.UK 

Take your time and answer honestly.

When describing difficulties:

• Give real examples.
• Explain how often they happen.
• Describe the impact on your work.
• Explain what you've already tried.

6. After You Apply

You may be contacted by an Access to Work adviser.

Sometimes an assessment is arranged to better understand what support would be helpful.

If funding is approved, Access to Work will explain what has been agreed and any next steps for your employer.

Top Tips

✔ Focus on the impact, not just the diagnosis.

✔ Give specific examples.

✔ Be honest and don't minimise your difficulties.

✔ Think about what helps you do your best work.

✔ Keep copies of everything you submit.

Need Some Help?

Many people find it difficult to explain their challenges, particularly if they've spent years masking or adapting without realising it.

An Access to Work Application Support Session can help you:

• identify the workplace barriers that matter most
• describe your challenges clearly
• think through reasonable adjustments
• complete your application with confidence

45–60 minute online session – £60

Ideal for employees who would like expert guidance while completing their own application.

Employers can purchase Access to Work Application Support Sessions for employees who may benefit from funded workplace support. These one-to-one online sessions help employees complete their own application confidently while reducing the time and uncertainty involved in the process.