Access to Work

Access to Work is a government programme supporting disabled people to start or stay in work

Overview

Access to Work is a grant. It helps you get or stay in a job if you have a disability or health condition, including mental health. You do not need to pay the money back.

Find out more on the GOV.UK website.

Who can apply

You can apply if you are aged 16 or over and have a disability or health condition.

You must be in paid work, or about to start work. This can include:

  • a job (full-time or part-time)
  • an apprenticeship
  • an internship or work placement
  • self-employment

You can also apply if you are starting the work experience part of a supported internship or traineeship.

For full details, see the ‘Eligibility’ section in the Access to Work factsheet on GOV.UK.

What the grant can pay for

The grant can help pay for support you need at work. This can include:

  • specialist equipment for your workplace
  • changes to equipment so you can use it more easily
  • extra travel costs if you cannot use public transport
  • support from a person, such as a job coach or note taker

There is no fixed amount. The amount depends on your needs and your situation.

Easy read

Mencap has easy read guides that explain:

Last updated: June 23, 2026

Next review due: December 23, 2026

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