Access to Work
Based on official GOV.UK Access to Work guidance. Support depends on individual needs and work circumstances.
Access to Work provides practical and financial support to help disabled and neurodivergent people start or stay in work. It can fund equipment, job coaching, travel support, and workplace adjustments if your condition affects your ability to work.
Overview
Access to Work can provide practical help to reduce barriers at work. This includes funding for specialist equipment, job coaching, communication support, and transport.
Many neurodivergent people benefit from Access to Work, especially where executive functioning, communication, sensory environments, or organisation affect work performance.
Support is personalised and designed to help you work safely, effectively, and sustainably.
Who it’s for
- Disabled people in employment or self-employment.
- People with neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism or ADHD.
- People starting a new job.
- People already working but struggling due to their condition.
- People attending job interviews.
- People returning to work after illness or disability.
Eligibility
- You must have a disability or condition that affects your ability to work.
- You must be aged 16 or over.
- You must live and work in England, Scotland, or Wales.
- You must be in paid employment, self-employed, or about to start a job.
- Your employer cannot reasonably provide the support themselves.
Eligible conditions
Conditions commonly linked to this benefit.
How it works
- You apply directly through GOV.UK.
- An assessor may contact you to understand your needs.
- They recommend support based on your condition and job.
- Funding may be provided for equipment, coaching, or transport.
- Support is tailored to your specific situation.
- Payments may go to you or your employer.
How to apply
- Apply online through the official GOV.UK Access to Work page.
- Provide details about your job and condition.
- Explain how your condition affects your work.
- Wait for contact from an assessor.
- Discuss support options.
- Receive a decision and start support.
Evidence to prepare
- Basic information about your condition.
- Job description or work details.
- Examples of difficulties at work.
- Employer details.
- Medical evidence is not always required but can help.
Assessment tips
- Be honest about the challenges you face at work.
- Explain specific tasks that are difficult.
- Mention sensory, communication, or executive function difficulties.
- Explain fatigue, stress, or overload if relevant.
- Focus on practical work-related impact.
Common mistakes
- Thinking you need a formal diagnosis (you do not always).
- Not explaining your real work difficulties.
- Assuming your employer must apply instead of you.
- Not applying because you already have a job.
- Underestimating the support available.
If you’re refused
- You can ask for the decision to be reconsidered.
- You can provide more information.
- You can reapply if your situation changes.
- Support organisations can help guide you.