Access to Work is a UK Government (DWP) grant that helps people with a disability or health condition start or stay in work. It can fund practical support such as job coaching, coping strategies, communication support, travel to work, and some equipment or adjustments. Grants don’t need to be repaid.
Who can apply (plain language)
- You live and work in Great Britain
- You’re in paid work, self‑employed, on an apprenticeship, have a confirmed job offer, or are about to start work
- You have a disability, neurodivergence, or health condition that affects your ability to do your job or get to work
What Access to Work can fund that’s relevant to REEL
- In‑work coaching and coping‑strategy support to reduce anxiety and improve participation
- Communication support and interview support (where applicable)
- Travel to work or support in/around the workplace (where applicable)
- Some equipment or adjustments recommended by the adviser (where applicable)
Note: employer contributions may apply for some adjustments; coaching and mental‑health related support is commonly grant‑funded. Always check the latest guidance.
Can I use Access to Work for REEL?
- Yes — if you’re in paid work (or due to start), Access to Work can often fund the 4–6 week REEL coaching as a “workplace support/job coach/coping strategies” intervention
- For interviews, you may be able to claim interview support under Access to Work’s interview support provisions
- The on‑the‑day job fair service is usually contracted by organisers (it’s pre‑employment), but individuals may still use REEL privately
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
- Go to the official page: gov.uk
- Click Apply. You’ll need: National Insurance number, employer (or job offer) details, role, and start date (if applicable)
- In “What support do you need?” write:
“Solution‑focused, brain‑based coaching to reduce anxiety, build coping strategies and improve participation in interviews/onboarding/in‑work tasks (REEL Programme). Delivery: in person/online.” - A DWP adviser will assess and may contact you and/or your employer
- If approved, you’ll receive a grant letter explaining what’s funded and how to claim
- We provide invoices/confirmations aligned with your grant instructions
Quick FAQs
- Is this means‑tested? No — Access to Work is a grant scheme (not benefits‑means‑tested), but awards are assessed and capped. Check gov.uk for the current annual cap and rules.
- Does my employer have to contribute? Sometimes for physical adjustments; coaching/coping strategy support is often grant‑funded. Your adviser will confirm.
- How long does it take? Timelines vary. Apply early — especially if you have a confirmed start date.