Eligibility to Access to Work

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Eligibility

Access to Work grants are only available if the employer is based in England, Scotland or Wales.

You must be 16 or over and either:

  • about to start a job or work trial
  • in a paid job or self-employed (you can’t get a grant for voluntary work)

You might also qualify if you’re getting New Enterprise Allowance or starting work experience under a Youth Contract.

Your condition

Your disability or health condition must affect your ability to do a job or mean you have to pay work-related costs. For example, special computer equipment or travel costs because you can’t use public transport.

Your mental health condition must affect your ability to do a job. It must also mean you need support to:

  • start a new job
  • reduce absence from work
  • stay in work

Exceptions

You might not qualify if you get any of these benefits:

  • Incapacity Benefit
  • Employment and Support Allowance
  • Severe Disablement Allowance
  • Income Support
  • National Insurance Credits

Changing jobs

You can transfer your grant to another employer if you change jobs.