Access to Work - Government grant for free ADHD Coaching in the UK
If you’re employed or self-employed in the UK and ADHD is making work harder than it needs to be, you may be able to get funding for ADHD coaching through the government’s Access to Work scheme.
I’m an Access to Work provider and regularly work with clients who use their funding to improve focus, organisation, emotional regulation, time management and confidence at work.
The best part? If your application is approved, Access to Work can cover the cost of your coaching, so you get the support you need without paying out of pocket.
WHAT IS ACCESS TO WORK?
Access to Work is a government grant that helps people with disabilities and long-term health conditions stay in work or start a new job.
ADHD is recognised by the scheme, and funding can be awarded for practical support that helps you perform your job more effectively. This can include:
- ADHD coaching
- Specialist equipment
- Assistive software
- Workplace support
- Travel support (where appropriate)
It’s important to know that Access to Work isn’t a benefit or a loan. If you’re awarded funding, you don’t repay it, and it doesn’t affect your other benefits.
Who Can Apply?
What Can ADHD Coaching Help With?
You may be eligible if you:
✔ Have ADHD or another condition that affects your work
✔ Are 16 or over
✔ Live and work in England, Scotland or Wales
✔ Are employed, self-employed, about to start a job or returning to work
You don’t necessarily need a formal ADHD diagnosis before applying. Access to Work looks at how your condition impacts your ability to work, not simply whether you have a diagnosis.
ADHD coaching isn’t about trying harder.
It’s about building systems that actually work for your brain.
Together we can work on things like:
- Prioritising without feeling overwhelmed
- Following through on tasks
- Managing procrastination
- Planning your workload
- Time blindness
- Emotional regulation
- Reducing workplace burnout
- Communication and boundaries
- Building routines that actually stick
- Confidence and self-trust
Every coaching programme is tailored to your goals and your role.
How Does Access to Work Work?
Step 1
Apply through the government Access to Work scheme.
Step 2
An advisor will discuss how ADHD affects your work and what support would help.
Step 3
If coaching is recommended, you’ll receive an award letter confirming your funding.
Step 4
Choose your coach.
I’d love to support you if we’re a good fit.
Step 5
We begin working together using your approved Access to Work funding.
How Do I Apply?
Applying is surprisingly straightforward.
You’ll need:
- Your contact details
- Your National Insurance number (if you have one)
- Your workplace details
- Information about how ADHD affects your work
- A contact at your workplace (if you’re employed)
You can apply online or by phone through the government website.
Why Work With Me?
Unlike someone who’s simply read about ADHD…
I live it.
I’m an ADHD Life & Mindset Coach who understands both the practical challenges and the emotional side of living and working with ADHD.
My coaching combines evidence-based strategies with lived experience to help you:
- Reduce overwhelm
- Improve follow-through
- Build realistic systems
- Feel more in control of your work and life
No generic productivity advice.
No trying to force yourself into systems that were never designed for your brain.
Just practical support that actually fits the way you work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an ADHD diagnosis?
Not always. Access to Work looks at how your condition affects your work rather than requiring a diagnosis in every case.
Can I apply if I’m self-employed?
Yes. Self-employed people can apply if they meet the eligibility requirements.
Can I choose my own coach?
Yes. If your funding includes ADHD coaching, you can choose the provider you want to work with.
Do I pay for coaching?
That depends on how your award is arranged, but many people have coaching funded through their Access to Work grant. In some cases, costs may be paid upfront and reimbursed according to the terms of the award.
How long does the process take?
Waiting times vary and can change throughout the year. The application itself is quick, but it can take several months to receive an assessment and decision, so it’s worth applying as early as possible.
Ready To Get Started?
If you’re thinking about applying for Access to Work, I’d love to help.
Book a free discovery call and we’ll chat about your goals, whether coaching feels like the right fit, and how we can work together if your funding is approved.