Access to Work
Access to Work is a Government funding scheme to help you enter or stay in work if you have a physical or mental health condition, a developmental or learning difference, or disability.
The scheme provides funding to help pay for the cost of adjustments above and beyond what is considered reasonable such as special equipment, adaptations, or any other extra support you may need to help you in the workplace.
It doesn’t matter how much you earn and it will not affect any other benefits you may get, and you do not have to pay it back.
Eligibility:
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Be Disabled or living with a long-term health condition which means you face barriers doing your job
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Be in a paid job, about start a job, or be self-employed (this includes part time work, apprenticeships, work trials, work experience, and internships)
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Be 16+
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Live and work in England, Scotland, or Wales
How do I apply?
You can apply for Access to Work online or by phone.​
You will need to give the following information:
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Your contact details
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Your workplace address and postcode
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The name, email address, or work phone number of a workplace contact who can confirm you work there (with your permission)
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Your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) number (if you’re self employed)
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Information about how your condition affects your work and what support you think you need
Do I need a diagnosis?
No. You are considered disabled under the Equality Act (2010) if you have a physical or mental impairment that has a ‘substantial’ and ‘long-term’ negative effect on your ability to do normal daily activities.
If you can evidence this, you are entitled to apply for Access to Work - even without a formal diagnosis (though a diagnosis may significantly help the process).
What if I don’t consider myself ‘disabled’?
Many neurodivergent people don’t.
But regardless of whether or not you identify with the label, neurodivergences are protected under the Equality Act (2010), and as such, are entitled to support and funding such as those granted under the Access to Work scheme.
Check our these guides for more information on Access to Work, and how to apply:
Access to Work helpline:
Telephone: 0800 121 7479
Textphone: 0800 121 7579
Relay UK (if you cannot hear or speak on the phone): 18001 then 0800 121 7479
British Sign Language (BSL) video relay service if you’re on a computer – find out how to use the service on mobile or tablet
Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm