Access to work
As a first responder, you’re constantly making quick decisions, managing high-pressure situations, and juggling unpredictable shifts. ADHD can make that even more challenging—but you don’t have to do it alone.
The Access to Work scheme is a government-funded program that provides practical and financial support to help people with ADHD thrive in their jobs. If ADHD is making your work more difficult, this program can help you get specialist coaching, assistive technology, and workplace adjustments—all at no cost to you.
What is Access To Work?
Access to Work is a UK government funding program that helps people with ADHD get the support they need to thrive at work. If ADHD makes certain parts of your job more challenging—whether it’s staying organised, managing time, or focusing—this scheme can provide funding for coaching, assistive technology, and workplace adjustments to make things easier. It’s designed to help you work with your ADHD, not against it. The best part? It’s free to apply, and the support is tailored to what you actually need.
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Eligibility Individuals with ADHD may qualify for the Access To Work grant.
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Financial Impact The grant does not affect other benefits and does not need to be repaid. Some costs may need to be paid upfront and claimed back later.
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Workplace Adjustments Access To Work can fund workplace adjustments but is not available for those who cannot work or are retired.
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Types of Support The grant can cover support and equipment in the workplace, adapting equipment, extra travel costs, interpreters for job interviews, and other practical help like a job coach or note taker.
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ADHD-Specific Support Examples of accommodations for people with ADHD include ADHD coaching, noise-canceling headphones, and significant workplace support.
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Application Process The application involves filling out a form, undergoing an assessment, and developing a tailored support plan, which may include flexible working patterns, additional support, and training.
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Employer Involvement Employers should provide reasonable accommodations and may need to pay costs upfront, which are later reimbursed by the government.
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Qualification Criteria To qualify, individuals must have a physical or mental health condition or disability, be 16 or over, in paid work or about to start, and live and work in England, Scotland, or Wales.
How to Apply for the Access to Work Grant
Here’s what you need to do:
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Firstly, you'll need to check if you’re eligible – If you have ADHD (or another condition) that makes work more challenging, you could qualify for support. You need to be 16 or over, in paid work (or starting within the next 12 weeks), and living and working in England, Scotland, or Wales. Whether you're employed or self-employed, this scheme is here to help!
To get started, visit www.gov.uk/access-to-work to check your eligibility and start your application. -
Fill in the online application - you'll need to complete some details about yourself, your condition and your job.
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Chat with an assessor – once you’ve applied, an Access to Work assessor will get in touch. They’ll ask about your job, how ADHD affects your work, and what kind of support could help you most.
That’s it! If you’re approved, you’ll get funding for the adjustments, coaching, or tools that can make work easier and less stressful.
