Did you know that you can secure funding through Access To Work via the UK Government, if you have ADHD, are autistic, dyslexic, dyspraxic or have another condition or disability? Read on to find out more.

What is Access To Work?

Access To Work can help you get or stay in work if you have a physical or mental health condition or disability.

It is a UK government programme that grants up to £66,000 per annum to support people with a physical or mental health condition or disability to take up or stay at work.

If you have ADHD are autistic or have another neurodivergent condition, you could qualify for the grant.

An Access to Work grant can pay for practical, life-changing support with the following:

• Starting work

• Staying in work

• Moving into self-employment or starting a business (but not to cover start-up costs)

It’s unfortunately not available for those who cannot work or are retired.

Who can apply?

You can apply if you 16+, live in the UK, are in full time/part time employment for an hour or more a week, or if you are looking for work, thinking about becoming self employed, and have ADHD or are autistic or any other disabilities, then you are entitled to apply.

All you need to do is tell your employer that you are applying, as they contribute around 20%. Or you can apply for it yourself if you are self employed.

Whilst completing the application form remember to be open and honest about your needs, explain in detail and be clear!

The more detail, the more likely you will receive the support!

What kind of support can I get?

It will depend on your needs. Through Access To Work, you can apply for a range of support including:

·       a grant to help pay for practical support with your work

·       support with managing your mental health at work

·       money to pay for communication support at job interviews

The following are accommodations that we know people with ADHD have successfully secured:

• ADHD Coaching - anything from 6 to 26 weeks

• Noise cancelling headphones

• A support worker

• Text reader

• Job aide

• Mind Mapping software

• Standing desks

• And more…

Do I need to work in an office to claim?

No. Your workplace can include your home if you work from there, some or all of the time.

Does it matter how much I earn?

It does not matter how much you earn. It is not means tested. If you get an Access To Work grant, it will not affect any other benefits you get and you will not have to pay it back.

Worth knowing…

You or your employer may need to pay some costs up front and claim them back later. You can also apply for Access To Work if you are self-employed.

Do check if you are eligible by visiting here. You do not need an official diagnosis (except for dyslexia) but some people we know have been refused without a diagnosis. Definitely worth applying though, just in case.

How to apply:

You can apply for Access To Work by visiting the DWP website here. Once you have secured your funding, get in touch with us to have an introductory call about ADHD coaching.

Hester is a certified ADHD coach who is diagnosed with ADHD. Find out more about Hester here.