Access to Work for ADHD: A Complete Guide
Access to Work is a UK government grant that funds ADHD support for employed people — including therapy programmes like CBT for ADHD.
Most newly diagnosed adults don't know Access to Work exists. This guide explains what it is, who qualifies, and exactly how to apply.
What is Access to Work?
Access to Work is a government grant run by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). It funds practical and therapeutic support to help people with disabilities — including ADHD — stay in or succeed at work.
Key facts:
- It is not means-tested (your income doesn't matter)
- It does not affect your other benefits
- It does not need to be repaid
- For coaching and therapy programmes like CBT for ADHD, Access to Work typically pays 100% of the cost
For small employers (under 50 staff), the employer contributes nothing. For larger employers, there is a small contribution threshold (£500 for 50–249 staff, £1,000 for 250+ staff), but the majority of the cost is still covered.
Who qualifies for Access to Work?
You qualify if:
✓ You are employed (full-time, part-time, self-employed, or starting a new job soon)
✓ You have a disability that affects your work (ADHD qualifies)
✓ You are working in the UK (or about to start a UK job)
You do not need to have been in your current job for a certain length of time. You can apply as soon as you start a new job, or even before you start.
How to apply: Step-by-step
Step 1: Apply online (20–30 minutes)
Visit gov.uk/access-to-work and start your application.
You will be asked to describe how your ADHD affects your ability to work. Be specific and practical. Examples:
- "I miss deadlines because starting tasks is very difficult even when I know what to do"
- "I lose track of time and frequently run over or miss appointments"
- "I find it hard to filter distractions in meetings and retain what was discussed"
- "I experience emotional responses at work that are disproportionate and hard to manage"
The more specific you are, the stronger your application.
Step 2: Needs assessment (about 12 weeks later)
A DWP assessor will contact you for a 40-minute phone conversation about your work situation and what support would help.
What to say:
Tell them you would like to access a post-diagnostic ADHD programme delivered by an accredited CBT therapist.
You can use this information:
Programme name: CBT for ADHD — Post-Diagnostic Group Programme
Format: 8 online group sessions × 90 minutes over 8 weeks
Delivered by: BABCP-accredited CBT psychotherapist, CBT for ADHD specialist trained (Russ Harris, Psychwire)
Workplace outcomes: Executive function strategies, task initiation and completion, emotional regulation, time management, burnout prevention
Cost per participant: £300–400
Step 3: Approval and booking
DWP issues an approval letter to you and your employer.
Your employer pays for your place, then claims the cost back from DWP.
Once your approval is confirmed, contact us to secure your place on the next available cohort.
Timeline: The full process takes approximately 12 weeks from application to approval.
What if my employer won't support Access to Work?
Access to Work is a legal entitlement, not a favor. Your employer is required to:
- Confirm your employment when DWP contacts them
- Pay for your place once Access to Work approves it
- Submit a straightforward claim form to recover the cost
If your employer refuses, they may be in breach of the Equality Act 2010, which requires employers to make reasonable adjustments for disabled employees.
You can contact the Equality Advisory and Support Service (EASS) for advice: 0808 800 0082
What if I don't want to go through Access to Work?
You can request employer funding directly as a reasonable adjustment under the Equality Act 2010. ADHD is legally recognised as a disability when it has a substantial and long-term effect on daily activities.
Speak to your HR team or line manager and ask them to review our employer information sheet.
Alternatively, places can be self-funded at the standard rate. Contact us to discuss options.
Questions about Access to Work or the programme?
Contact us at lisanne@lisannedavie.com
We respond within two working days and are happy to guide you through the Access to Work application process.