Access to Work Grant

Access to Work Grant Explained

Access to Work pays for the practical things that make a job workable if you have a disability or a health condition. That might be specialist equipment, software, a support worker, changes to your workplace, or travel costs if public transport isn't realistic for you.

It's paid by the Department for Work and Pensions, not by your employer, and it doesn't affect your other benefits. You don't pay it back.

There's no published cap on most of it. What you get depends on what you actually need to do the job, so two people in similar roles can end up with very different awards.

Who is eligible?

You need a physical or mental health condition or disability that makes some part of your job harder, and you need to be in paid work, self-employed, or have a job offer in hand.

There's no list of qualifying conditions. The test is whether the support would help you get or stay in work.

If your condition is service-related, that doesn't change how you apply — this is a DWP scheme rather than an armed forces one, and it's open to anyone in work who needs it.

What benefits does this provide?

• Does not affect your other benefits: An Access to Work grant is disregarded for other benefits, and you do not repay it.

• No fixed cap on most support: There is no published maximum for most elements — an award is based on what you actually need in your role.

• Financial Support: Covers costs for workplace adaptations, special equipment, and support workers to help veterans with disabilities or health conditions perform their job effectively.

• Travel Assistance: Provides funding for travel to and from work if public transport is not a viable option due to a disability.

• Communication Support: Offers assistance for job interviews and ongoing employment, including interpreters or other communication aids for veterans with hearing or speech impairments.

• Workplace Adjustments: Funds modifications to the work environment, such as ergonomic furniture or assistive technology, to accommodate specific needs.

• Mental Health Support: Includes access to mental health services and resources to help veterans manage stress and maintain well-being in the workplace.

• Training and Development: Supports training programmes to enhance skills and improve job prospects for veterans with disabilities.

• Ongoing Support: Provides continuous assistance to ensure veterans can sustain employment and adapt to any changes in their condition or job role.

How do I apply?

• Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the criteria, such as having a disability or health condition that affects your work.
• Gather Information: Prepare details about your job, health condition, and the support you need.
• Contact Access to Work: Reach out via phone, email, or online to start your application. You can find contact details on the UK government website.
• Complete the Application: Fill out the application form provided by Access to Work, detailing your needs and how they affect your job.
• Assessment: An Access to Work advisor may contact you to discuss your application and assess your needs.
• Receive Decision: If approved, you'll receive a grant offer outlining the support and funding available.
• Implement Support: Work with your employer to arrange the agreed support and submit any necessary claims for reimbursement.

Common questions

Learn More

• GOV.UK Access to Work: What it covers, who qualifies and how to apply. gov.uk/access-to-work
• GOV.UK finding a job as a veteran: Employment support for service leavers and veterans. gov.uk/guidance/finding-a-job-as-a-veteran
• Help for Heroes: Support with health, welfare and getting back into work. helpforheroes.org.uk/get-help
• Citizens Advice: Free, independent help with claims, evidence and appeals. citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits
• The Royal British Legion: Benefits, money and welfare advice for the armed forces community. britishlegion.org.uk