Applying for Access to Work: Workplace Neurodiversity Coaching

Sept. 19, 2025

What Is Access to Work?

Access to Work, administered by the DWP, provides grants to help you start or stay in work if your neurodivergence, disability, or mental health condition affects your job performance. It can fund essential tools such as specialist equipment, assistive software, workplace coaching, communication support, travel, or even adaptations to your home office. Importantly, this funding is not repayable and does not affect your benefits.


Step-by-Step Guide to Applying

1 Check Your Eligibility

  • Aged 16 or over.
  • In or about to start paid work (including self-employment, apprenticeships, or home-based roles).
  • A formal diagnosis is not required.

2 Gather Required Information

  • Contact and workplace details.
  • How your neurodivergence affects your work and what support would help.
  • For self-employed applicants: your Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR).

3 Submit the Application

  • Apply online or via the DWP helpline.
  • Alternative formats (large print, BSL, audio) are available on request.

4 Assessment Phase

  • An assessor (from DWP, Maximus, or Reed) will contact you to co-design a tailored support plan.

5 Implement Your Support Package

  • Funding covers agreed support, such as coaching, assistive tools, or workplace adaptations.
  • Smaller employers and self-employed workers often receive full funding; larger employers may share costs for equipment.

6 Maintain & Renew Support

  • Grants typically last 6-12 months, sometimes up to 3 years.
  • Renew around 12 weeks before expiry to avoid gaps in support.

Why a Neurodiversity Specialist Workplace Coach Makes a Difference

Drawing on decades of professional experience as an Occupational Therapist, I bring a deep understanding of workplace functioning to my work as a Neurodiversity workplace Coach, providing practical strategies, and exploring individual strengths. While Access to Work does not involve Occupational Therapy, my clinical background informs my coaching, giving clients a practical, evidence-based approach to navigating workplace support.

Expert Applications
I help you clearly articulate your support needs to Access to Work assessors, ensuring your application is robust, precise, and compelling.

Strength-Based Approach
We focus on your neurodivergent strengths, creating strategies that build on your abilities while addressing barriers.

Practical Coordination
From sourcing quotes to liaising with the DWP, I help manage the process efficiently, reducing stress and delays.

Flexible Support
As your role or workplace evolves, your support plan adapts to ensure ongoing success.

Government Context & Driving Change
The DWP’s Expert Panel on Neurodiversity and Employment aims to increase neurodivergent employment rates, with targets of up to 80% employment for disabled people. Yet only 31% of autistic adults are currently in work. Delays in Access to Work approvals, sometimes over nine months remain a barrier. Working with a Neurodiversity Specialist Coach ensures your application is proactive and well-prepared, giving you the best chance of timely support.

Take Action Today
You are entitled to request a Neurodiversity Specialist Coach to guide your Access to Work journey.

With my extensive experience supporting neurodivergent clients and professional background  together we will:

  • Create a coherent, strength-led application tailored to your work needs.
  • Maximise your grant effectively.
  • Develop practical, long-term workplace strategies.

The goal is more than securing support-it’s helping workplaces recognise and value neurodivergent talent.

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