Eligibility to Access to Work

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.