How can I get help with Access to Work?

Access to Work can sometimes feel overwhelming. It takes time and energy, and it often involves a lot of organisation, paperwork, and self-advocacy. Whether you're applying for yourself or supporting someone else, there are ways to make the process easier.

Here are some suggestions to help you feel more confident and supported.

How can I learn more about Access to Work?

Understanding the scheme is a great place to start. There are official resources as well as community support and Brain in Hand guidance to help you get clear on what’s involved.

Official guidance includes:

Access to Work Staff Guide - this is the guidance that Case Managers use internally to make decisions.

Factsheet for Customers

Factsheet for Employers

Community knowledge

There are online forums, especially on social media, where people share their experiences and advice. You can read through existing posts or ask your own questions. Some free groups you might find helpful (these are not vetted or endorsed by Brain in Hand) include:

Access to work support group UK, Facebook

Access to Work Claimants, Facebook

Access to Work Collective, LinkedIn

Brain in Hand resources

We’ve created tools and guides to help you through every stage of your Access to Work journey. These include:

The Ultimate Guide to Access to Work (webpage)

New Applications: a step-by-step guide (pdf)

Renewal Applications: a step-by-step guide (pdf)

Reconsiderations: a step-by-step guide (pdf)

Help Centre (webpages)

Who can support me through the process?

Having someone by your side can make a big difference. You don’t have to do it all alone.

Personal support

You can ask someone you trust to help you fill in forms, respond to emails or join you in calls and meetings. This might be a family member, friend or colleague. It could also be a professional, such as a support worker, benefits adviser or paid advocate.

Using a representative

You can nominate a representative at any stage. They’ll be the main contact for your Access to Work application and can speak on your behalf. You’ll still need to confirm your identity with Access to Work, and you may be asked to attend some meetings – but your representative can be there to support you.

Professional advice and support

There are organisations that offer free advice, especially those supporting disabled people locally. Some examples include:

WECIL, in Bristol

Sheffield ME & Fibromyalgia Group, in Sheffield

Disability North, in Newcastle

Some coaching providers, support workers and assistive technology companies may also offer free help with applications – usually on the understanding that you’ll use their services if your support is funded by Access to Work. For example:

This is ME Agency

Accessibility Partners

Celebrate Difference

These organisations are listed for information and are not vetted or endorsed by Brain in Hand.