Neurodivergent & Thriving: How Access to Work Can Help

What is Access to Work

Access to Work is a government-funded programme in the UK that provides financial support to help neurodivergent individuals, such as those with ADHD, overcome work-related obstacles. It ensures workplaces are inclusive and accessible, promoting equal opportunities for everyone.

For individuals Access to Work can cover expenses for specialist support that you may need to perform your job effectively. This could include equipment, coaching, or even travel support.

For Organisations and Leaders Access to Work helps you offer additional assistance to your employees beyond the reasonable adjustments required by law, improving productivity and overall job satisfaction.

Why Claim Access to Work?

For Individuals: Access to Work can help you:

• Thrive in your role: By providing the necessary adjustments and support.
• Support and Inclusion: This programme helps by funding adjustments that enable you to perform your best.
• Work more effectively: With tools and strategies that are unique to your needs.
• Boost your job satisfaction: Feeling supported in the workplace.

For Organisations and Leaders:

• Create an inclusive workplace and culture: Supporting employees leads to a more engaged and productive team. Foster a welcoming and productive environment for neurodivergent employees
• Retain top talent: Invest in your employees' well-being and increase employee retention. Employees who feel valued are more likely to stay long-term.

What Can You Claim?

Specialist Equipment: Tools or devices that assist in performing job tasks.

Coaching: Specific coaching services to support neurodivergent individuals in developing unique strategies to managing ADHD challenges and lean into ADHD strengths.

Support Workers: Assistance in the workplace for practical or communication needs.

Travel Costs: Financial assistance for travel to and from work if public transport is not suitable.

Training: Courses to develop skills related to the job or to better understand how to manage neurodivergence in the workplace.

How to Claim

For Individuals:

1. Initial Application: Apply online here or contact the Access to Work helpline.
2. Assessment: An assessor will discuss your needs and recommend support options.
3. Approval: You’ll receive confirmation and details of the support available.
4. Implementation: Work with your employer (if applicable) to implement the recommended adjustments.

For Organisations and Leaders:

If your employee applies for Access to Work, you may need to assist in implementing some of the recommended changes. Employers usually pay upfront for adjustments and are then reimbursed through the scheme.

My Journey with Access to Work

Being diagnosed with ADHD as an adult was like discovering I had an entirely new way of thinking, but without the roadmap to navigate it. After struggling with workplace challenges, It was a gamechanger to find out that the government could pay for ADHD coaching through Access to Work.

You don't need a diagnosis or medical certificate to apply—but a disability or health condition that makes it hard for you to do your job or get to work.

What Happens Next?

After Applying: A few months later (approximately 5-6), an Access to Work adviser will contact you. If self-employed, they may request a copy of your most recent tax return or a business plan. The adviser may refer you for an independent assessment, which can be in person or remote.

Assessment: This involves discussing your job and health condition, exploring support options. For example, I learned about earplugs for sensory issues from my assessor. This doesn’t involve your employer much, so it’s less daunting than an Occupational Health referral.

Report & Quotes: The assessor reports back to the adviser, who may ask you for quotes for services like coaching or support workers. They typically choose the lowest cost option but the grant can be used with your preferred provider.

Decision & Implementation: You'll receive a decision letter to sign and return. If employed, your employer pays upfront and claims back. For the self-employed, you’ll pay and claim back with monthly forms.

Reasonable Adjustments vs. Access to Work

Employers are required by law to make reasonable adjustments to remove any substantial disadvantages for disabled employees. These can include:

·?????? Flexible working hours

·?????? Administrative support

·?????? Providing written instructions

·?????? 1:1 meetings or coaching?

Access to Work provides additional support beyond these adjustments, helping to create a more inclusive and productive environment.

Duration of Support

Support lasts as long as you need it. Coaching is often in packages (e.g., 6 months), while other support like virtual assistance can be annual but renewable.

Reconsiderations

If you disagree with a decision, discuss it with your adviser. You can request a reconsideration within 4 weeks, explaining why the support proposed isn’t suitable and how the correct support will aid your long-term employment.

Reasonable Adjustments vs. Access to Work

An employer is required to make reasonable adjustments to remove any substantial disadvantages a disabled employee is experiencing at work. These are changes considered 'reasonable', given their size, resources, and other factors. Some examples include:

·?????? Flexible working hours/locations

·?????? Administrative support

·?????? Coaching

·?????? Providing written instructions for work

·?????? Extra 1:1 support from managers

·?????? Earlier deadlines for projects

While there may be overlap with what Access to Work can provide, it is additional support—not a replacement for these reasonable adjustments.

How Can I Help & Why Work with Me?

For Individuals:

I offer free body doubling sessions to help you stay focused while completing your Access to Work claim. This provides practical support, helping you stay on track with the application process. My coaching services are separate and designed to help you implement workplace strategies that enhance your productivity and well-being.

• Get personalised support: From application assistance to coaching, I can help you navigate the Access to Work process and develop strategies for success.
• Unlock your potential: With my expertise, you can achieve your career goals, lean into your ADHD and thrive in the workplace.

Ready to unlock your potential at work? Fill out our interest form here to explore how my coaching can help you achieve meaningful progress in your career!

For Organisations and Leaders:

Creating an inclusive and supportive environment for neurodivergent employees is key to unlocking their full potential. I partner with organisations to ensure they have the tools and understanding to foster a workplace where neurodiverse individuals can thrive. I collaborate with organisations to offer a range of neurodiversity support services, including:

• Tailored Training: Bespoke workshops to help your team better understand ADHD and other neurodivergent conditions.
• Coaching and Mentoring: Personalised coaching for neurodivergent employees to navigate workplace challenges and enhance performance.
• Collaborative Working Sessions: Immersive group, team, and individual coaching sessions to support organisational change and foster a neuro-inclusive culture.
• Foster a positive work environment: By implementing effective adjustments and strategies, you can create a workplace where everyone feels valued and included.

Interested in creating a neuro-inclusive workplace? Contact me to discuss your neurodiversity coaching needs and explore how we can work together to support your team.

Conclusion

Access to Work can be a valuable resource for neurodivergent individuals seeking support to thrive in the workplace. By understanding the program and taking advantage of the available resources, you can overcome challenges and achieve your goals and unlock your full potential.

Support & Resources

LinkedIn Live

Myself and inclusivity expert Nikki Davies did our first LinkedIn live last week on Freedom and Focus: Rethinking Alcohol, Embracing Inclusivity and ADHD you can replay the event here.