How Access to Work Can Support Both Employees and Employers

Working with a disability, neurodivergence, or a mental health condition can come with challenges, but there’s support available to help you succeed.

Access to Work (A2W) is a valuable but often unknown government scheme in the UK that provides practical, personalised support to help you get into work or stay in your job by giving you support with the barriers your condition might create.

Whether you’re an employee, self-employed, or about to start a job, A2W could provide the support that you need to help you succeed, and professional coaching could be a meaningful part of that support.

What Is Access to Work?

Access to Work is a government-funded grant that helps people with disabilities or health conditions (including mental health and neurodivergence) access the tools and support they need to thrive in employment. This could include paying for:

Specialist software or equipment
A support worker, coach or travel buddy
Costs of getting to work if public transport isn’t accessible
Support managing your mental health at work
Communication support at interviews

And here’s the good news: the grant doesn’t have to be repaid.

Who is it for?

You may be eligible for A2W if:

You’re in (or about to start) paid work, including self-employment
You have a physical or mental health condition or disability. Neurodivergence counts.
You need help or adaptations to do your job effectively

It also applies to hybrid and home-based workers, and even those attending interviews or on work placements in certain government-backed schemes.

Can You Get Coaching With Access to Work?

Yes, one of the most overlooked uses of Access to Work is funding for specialist coaching, particularly for those who are neurodivergent or dealing with mental health challenges at work.

A coach can help with:

Developing executive functioning skills (organisation, time management, focus)
Managing stress, overwhelm or burnout
Building confidence and assertive communication skills
Creating sustainable work routines or managing transitions
Navigating challenges with managers or colleagues

Creating new habits or routines that help maximise your output and your downtime

That’s where I come in. As a coach with experience supporting neurodivergent professionals, I can work with you to create a personalised coaching programme, and in many cases, it can be fully funded through A2W.

Ready to Access Coaching?

Whether you’re an employee approved for Access to Work funding or an employer looking to support your team, I can help support your journey with coaching. I offer personalised, neurodivergent-friendly coaching that can be fully funded through your Access to Work grant. Together, we’ll create a plan that works for your goals, your environment, and your unique way of working.

Get in touch with James

Employers Can Use It Too

If you’re an employer, A2W can help you support disabled or neurodivergent staff, helping you enable employees, and unlock their full potential. Whether it’s covering the cost of equipment, coaching, or travel arrangements, A2W can remove financial barriers and create a more inclusive workplace.

Employers may need to pay some costs upfront (depending on the employee’s length of service), but may be able to claim some back. Plus, Access to Work will offer guidance on reasonable adjustments, which employers are legally obliged to provide regardless.

How to Apply

Check eligibility at the Access to Work website
Apply online or by phone, you’ll need your National Insurance number, workplace details, and information about your needs.
Work with an assessor (if needed), after your application is reviewed. This free and straightforward step involves a short conversation (often by phone or video) where they learn more about your job and daily tasks to recommend the most helpful support.
Get approval and start accessing support.

Once approved, you’ll be able to pay for costs (like coaching sessions) using the grant which is administered by A2W.

Final Thoughts

Access to work is a fantastic resource, and can help you make adjustments to grow in the workplace. If you’ve ever felt that work is harder than it needs to be because of your health, disability or neurodivergence, you will likely benefit from A2W.

And if you’re awarded funding, make sure you’re using it to the fullest. Coaching can be one of the most transformative tools, not only helping you stay in work, but helping you thrive.

Top Tip: It can take 6-9 months just for your application to get to the top of the pile so get your application in ASAP. And if forms aren’t your thing, ask a friend to do it with or for you, there’s no shame in that.

James O'Halloran

As a Business Coach I help Founders and those in Career Transition unlock problems and increase self-mastery so that they are confident in their direction and leadership. Through Career and Business Coaching, I help people who want to disrupt the(ir) status quo.