Access to Work – Government Funding for ASD / ND clients

Access to Work – Applying for Funding [information sharing]

In the UK, someone with a formal ADHD diagnosis can apply for Access to Work funding through the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). It is designed to help cover practical workplace support that goes beyond what an employer is legally required to provide.

1. Check Eligibility

You can apply if you:

1. Have a diagnosed disability or long-term health condition (ADHD qualifies).
2. Are aged 16 or over.
3. Are in paid employment (employed, self-employed, apprenticeship, work trial, or about to start a job).
4. Live and work in England, Scotland or Wales.

You do not need to receive PIP or any other benefit to apply.

2. Apply

1. The individual applies directly (not the employer).
2. You will need:
   • National Insurance number
   • Employer details (or self-employed details)
   • Job title and working hours
   • Description of how ADHD affects work performance
3. Evidence of diagnosis may be requested later.
4. Applications can be made online or by telephone.

3. Assessment Process

1. After applying, an adviser will usually make contact.
2. A workplace needs assessment may be arranged (often remote).
3. The focus is on functional impact, such as:
   • Focus and concentration
   • Organisation and time management
   • Emotional regulation
   • Sensory sensitivity
   • Task initiation and completion
   • Executive functioning

It is helpful to describe practical workplace consequences rather than general symptoms.

Example:  Instead of “I struggle with focus,” say:
“I miss deadlines because I underestimate the time needed and lose track of task sequencing.”

4. What Access to Work May Fund for ADHD

Common approved supports include:

1. ADHD workplace coaching.
2. Specialist strategy or executive function coaching.
3. Assistive software (speech-to-text, planning tools, reminder systems).
4. Noise-cancelling headphones.
5. Dual monitors or adaptive equipment.
6. Ergonomic adjustments.
7. Travel support in specific circumstances.

If employed, the employer may contribute a portion of costs.
If self-employed, funding is often more fully covered.

5. Employer Involvement

1. A grant offer letter is issued outlining approved support.
2. The letter confirms funding levels and any employer contribution.
3. The scheme funds workplace support only — not diagnosis or medical treatment.

6. Payment Process

1. Support is arranged.
2. The individual or employer usually pays upfront.
3. Invoices are submitted.
4. The agreed amount is reimbursed by DWP.

It is important to keep copies of all documentation.

7. Practical Tips (Especially Helpful for ADHD Applicants)

1. Prepare bullet points before any assessment call.
2. Ask for email communication if that supports clarity.
3. Set reminders for deadlines.
4. Ask a trusted person to sit with you while completing forms if needed.

Official Links

1. Access to Work Overview:
   https://www.gov.uk/access-to-work
2. Apply for Access to Work:
   https://www.gov.uk/access-to-work/apply
3. Access to Work Factsheet:
   https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/access-to-work-factsheet/access-to-work-factsheet-for-customers
4. Department for Work and Pensions:
   https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-work-pensions

 

Typical Access to Work Processing Times (UK):  There is no fixed national processing time, and timeframes vary depending on demand and backlog levels. However, based on recent reported experiences, the following is a realistic guide:

1. Initial Contact

• Often within 8–12 weeks of application.
• In busy periods, this can take longer.
• If starting a job soon (within 6 weeks), cases may be prioritised.

2. Assessment and Decision

• Commonly around 12 weeks (3 months) from application.
• In practice, many applicants report 3–6 months total.
• In high-demand periods, delays of 6–8 months have occurred.

3. After Approval

• Once a grant offer letter is issued and support is arranged,
• Reimbursement of invoices typically takes a few weeks, provided paperwork is correct.

 

What This Means in Practice:   Apply as early as possible  |  Put interim reasonable adjustments in place with the employer while waiting  |  Manage expectations: 3–6 months is currently common, though it may be shorter or longer depending on demand