Access to Work: the ADHD benefit many people don't know about
If you're employed or self-employed and ADHD affects your work, you may be entitled to government-funded workplace support, up to £69,260 a year. Most people have never heard of it.
What is Access to Work?
Access to Work is a DWP grant. It doesn't affect your other income, savings, or benefits, including Universal Credit. It pays for practical support to help you stay in work, support your employer isn't required to fund themselves. It's a grant, not a loan, so you don't pay it back.
What ADHD-related support can you claim?
ADHD coaching
Regular sessions with a specialist ADHD coach to help with focus, planning and work habits
Assistive technology
Software and tools like noise-cancelling headphones, focus apps, or dictation software
Travel to work
If ADHD affects your ability to use public transport, taxis or specialist transport may be covered
Support worker
A job coach or support worker to help you manage tasks at work
Workplace adaptations
Physical changes to your workspace to reduce distraction
Training
Training for you or your employer to better understand ADHD in the workplace
Awards are fully individual. The average award across all Access to Work claimants in 2024/25 was £7,090, but yours could be higher or lower depending on what you need.
There is no fixed amount for any of these. What you receive depends entirely on your individual assessment.
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Check you're eligible
You must be 16 or over, in paid work or about to start within 12 weeks, and based in England, Scotland or Wales.
- 2
Gather your evidence
A diagnosis letter helps, but isn't required. You can also describe how ADHD affects your work yourself.
- 3
Apply online at gov.uk/access-to-work
The application itself takes under an hour, but be aware that current waiting times for a decision are running well beyond the official guidance due to a large backlog.
- 4
Assessment
A DWP adviser, or sometimes an external assessor, will discuss your needs, by phone, video or in person. Be specific about real examples of how ADHD affects your day.
- 5
Award letter
If approved, you'll get a letter setting out exactly what's funded. Awards are typically reviewed every 3 years.
- 6
Arrange your support
For coaching, you usually choose your own provider, and DWP pays them directly or reimburses you.
Many applicants are currently experiencing long delays. If your situation is urgent, for example a new job starting soon, mention this clearly in your application and contact the Access to Work helpline to flag it.
Tips for a strong application
Be specific about impact
Instead of 'I struggle to concentrate', describe a real example, like missing a deadline because of difficulty prioritising tasks.
Mention every area of work affected separately
Commuting, meetings, emails, planning and time management can all count.
A supporting letter from a diagnosing clinician isn't required, but it can strengthen your case.
If you have one, include it. If not, your own detailed description is still valid.
If you're refused, you can ask for a mandatory reconsideration
Provide more specific examples and explain why the support is essential for you to do your job.
Frequently asked questions
Does Access to Work affect my Universal Credit or other benefits?+
No. Access to Work is a grant, not a benefit. It doesn't count as income and won't affect Universal Credit, PIP, or any other entitlement.
Can I claim if I'm self-employed?+
Yes. Self-employed people, sole traders and company directors are all eligible, provided the work is paid and ongoing.
Do I need a formal diagnosis to apply?+
No. A diagnosis letter can help, but you can apply by describing how ADHD affects your work. The application is about your needs, not your label.
How long does it currently take to get a decision?+
Official guidance suggests several weeks, but many applicants are currently experiencing much longer waits due to a significant backlog. Apply as early as possible, especially if you're starting a new job.
What happens if I change jobs?+
Awards are tied to your role. If you change jobs you'll need to reapply, but a previous award usually makes the new application faster.