Prepare and track your Access to Work application step by step, with support available from us at every single stage.

Created by Seen & Supported: specialist 1:1 neurodivergent strategy coaching, body doubling, and full Access to Work grant navigation across the UK.

CURRENT DWP WAIT TIME
Approximately 37 Weeks Processing Queue Due to high application volumes at DWP, current processing times are approximately 37 weeks. Starting your application today locks in your place in the queue as early as possible!
IMPORTANT

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That way you can return anytime to update your progress, track your steps, see what to do next, or reach out to us for support whenever you need it!

Who Qualifies?

You can apply if you meet these criteria:

  • You have a disability, physical, mental health or neurodivergent condition (ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, etc.) that is impacting on your work.
  • Aged 16+ living and working in England, Scotland, or Wales.
  • Employed, self-employed, Ltd Director, or starting work/a business in the next 12 weeks.

Good news: You do NOT need a formal diagnosis or medical report to apply: self-identification is accepted by the DWP.

Your Details

Grant Fact: Access to Work is a discretionary government grant, not a loan. It never has to be paid back and does not affect your tax or personal benefits.

Important Notice Before You Begin

Complete in One Session

The official GOV.UK online application form cannot be saved partway through. Please ensure you have all required information ready so you can complete and submit your form in a single session once opened.

Pacing & Body Doubling Support

Set aside 20 to 30 minutes in a quiet space. If you feel overwhelmed or need help getting started, we offer 1:1 body doubling support to walk you through it: just click any Contact us for support → button in the steps below!

Application Progress 0% Complete

Application Steps

Please select your employment status above under "Your Details" to see your tailored step-by-step checklist.

Option 1: Applying Online

Consider this if: You prefer writing things down, drafting text notes beforehand, or working through forms quietly at your own pace.

Key detail: Must be submitted in a single session without saving.

Option 2: Applying by Phone

Consider this if: You process thoughts better by talking aloud, find typing overwhelming, or prefer an advisor to record details for you.

Key detail: Call 0800 121 7479 (hold times vary).

Unsure which route is right for you? Every neurodivergent individual works differently. If you are torn between typing or calling, click the contact button below: we can talk through both options with you or body double while you submit!

Framework Example: Below is a wording framework to illustrate how you might describe your support worker and equipment needs in your application. Do not copy this word for word: adjust and personalize it to describe your own unique daily workplace experiences before submitting.

"Specialist 1:1 ADHD and neurodivergent coaching to overcome executive dysfunction, focus difficulties, time blindness, and task initiation struggles that directly impact my daily work duties. Plus assistive technology, software, and specialist equipment to help structure my workday, maintain focus, and complete tasks reliably."
Preferred Provider Option If you already have a preferred coaching provider (such as Seen & Supported), you can mention them directly by name in your application notes.
Reassurance: The Needs Assessment Is Not a Test! It is completely normal to feel apprehensive, but the Needs Assessment is simply a supportive chat with a specialist who genuinely wants to help you succeed. Don't worry about being put on the spot when DWP or an assessor calls: their initial call is usually just to schedule your assessment for a later date! Caseworkers will also typically let you know how many times they will try contacting you before leaving a message.
How We Can Help We can help you brainstorm, identify, and refine your specific workplace challenges before your assessment call so you feel completely prepared.
Needs Assessment Info An assessment is an informal conversation with an independent 3rd-party specialist organisation who will contact you separately. They discuss your working style, recommend tailored tools, and submit a report to DWP on your behalf. Note: Assessors suggest options, but your DWP Caseworker makes final funding decisions.
Pro-Tip: Software vs. 1:1 Coaching Assessors often suggest software or apps before human support workers/coaches. If apps alone don't work for you (e.g. executive dysfunction means apps sit unused), explicitly state why 1:1 human coaching is essential for your working style.
DWP Communication Caution DWP calls usually come from withheld or private numbers. Unfortunately, you cannot call caseworkers or assessors back directly because inbound calls route through a central switchboard without direct extensions. Keep an eye on your phone so you don't miss incoming calls!
Reminder: You've Got This! Remember, the assessment is a comfortable, casual conversation. You are always in control and can freely say "Yes", "No", or "That won't work for me" to any suggestion made by the assessor.
How We Can Help We can support you to prep for the assessment call beforehand so you know exactly what to say, what to expect, and how to advocate for your needs.
DWP Communication Caution Calls usually come from withheld or unknown numbers, but DWP and assessment team staff are typically very friendly and supportive once you are on the phone. Note: You cannot call assessors or caseworkers back directly because inbound calls route through a central queue without direct extensions.
How Approval Works The 3rd-party assessor submits recommendations, but a DWP Caseworker makes the final decision on what is approved.
Important Note on Funding Allocation The specific breakdown and detailed allocation of your approved funds are detailed on your official decision letter in the post, rather than fully shown on the portal dashboard. Please wait until you have received and reviewed your full paper letter before reaching out with questions about your approved budget.
Reviewing Your Approved Support Your decision letter confirms the approved coaching hours, equipment allowances, and validity dates. Keep this letter safe as you will need reference numbers from it for future claims.
Equipment & Direct Supplier Payments If paying upfront for approved specialist equipment isn't feasible, Access to Work can pay suppliers directly before equipment is dispatched! We know the exact process and documentation DWP requires to get direct payments set up smoothly without delays: get in touch and we will guide you through it!
Coaching Claims & How We Help For 1:1 coaching, sessions are paid upfront and claimed back via your portal for 100% reimbursement back into your bank account. We don't need a copy of your full award letter: we simply assist you with filling in your claim forms accurately after sessions so your costs are covered with zero stress.
Disclaimer & Information Accuracy

This interactive guide reflects the Access to Work application process at the time of creation and is subject to change without notice as DWP guidance and policies evolve. Seen & Supported provides this guide for guidance purposes only; we cannot guarantee grant approval or specific funding amounts.

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