Here is a step-by-step guide to applying for Access to Work for ADHD coaching in the UK, this will hopefully make the process straightforward and easy to follow:

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Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before applying, ensure you meet the basic eligibility criteria:

1. Health Condition: You must have a physical or mental health condition or disability (such as ADHD) that affects your ability to work or requires adjustments.

2. Age: You must be at least 16 years old.

3. Employment Status: You must be in paid work, self-employed, or have a job offer to start within the next 12 weeks.

4. Location: You must live and work in England, Scotland, or Wales (Access to Work does not cover the Channel Islands, Isle of Man, and uses a different system in Northern Ireland).

If you meet these requirements, you can proceed with the application.

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Step 2: Gather Necessary Documentation

​While a diagnosis isn’t strictly necessary, having one can strengthen your application. Gather the following:

• ADHD Diagnosis Documentation (if available): This could be a formal diagnosis or related medical records if you have them.

• Job Details: Information about your current job role, tasks, and the specific challenges caused by ADHD.

• Employment Letter or Job Offer (if applicable): Proof of employment or an offer of employment, especially if you haven’t yet started the job.

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Step 3: Visit the Access to Work Application Website

1. Go to the official Access to Work page on the UK Government website: gov.uk/access-to-work.

2. Read through any additional information on the website, which explains the types of support available.

3. Click on the link to start your application.

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Step 4: Complete the Application Form​

The application form will ask for the following details:

• Personal Information: Full name, contact details, and National Insurance number.

• Employment Information: Job role, hours, employer’s contact details, and workplace location.

• Details of Your Condition: Describe how ADHD affects your work and particular tasks.

• Types of Support Required: For ADHD coaching, specify that you’re seeking support for “ADHD coaching” and any other accommodations that would help (e.g., noise-cancelling headphones, a job coach).

Be as specific as possible about how ADHD impacts your work. This information will be used to assess the support most suited to you.

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Step 5: Submit the Application

After completing the form, submit it online. You may receive a confirmation email or phone call afterwards.

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Step 6: Assessment Process

​After submitting your application:

1. Contact with an Assessor: An Access to Work assessor will contact you to discuss your needs in more depth. This conversation is crucial as it determines the type and level of support available to you.

2. Workplace Visit: The assessor may request to view your workplace (virtually or in person) and speak to your employer about any needed adjustments.

3. Develop a Support Plan: Together, you, your employer, and the assessor will create a plan tailored to your needs. This might include:

   • ADHD coaching

   • Flexible working arrangements

   • Additional time to complete specific tasks

   • Mentorship for support at work

Be open and clear about your daily work challenges to ensure the support plan accurately reflects your needs.

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Step 7: Approval and Funding

1. ​Approval: The government will review and approve your support plan based on the assessment.

2. Funding Mechanism: In most cases, your employer pays for services upfront, and they are later reimbursed by Access to Work. Be sure to confirm this process with your employer.

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Step 8: Implement Support at Work

​Once funding is approved, begin setting up the support:

1. Coordinate with Your Employer: Work with your employer to arrange ADHD coaching sessions and any additional support tools.

2. Keep Records: Retain records of any expenses if you or your employer pay upfront, as these will need to be submitted for reimbursement.

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Step 9: Follow-Up and Review

​Access to Work provides support on an ongoing basis, usually up to three years, after which your needs will be reviewed. You may also have periodic reviews to check if adjustments to your support plan are necessary as your role or needs change.

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Tips for Success

• ​Be Clear and Specific: Describe in detail how ADHD affects your job performance.

• Advocate for Your Needs: Be honest about the challenges you face and how support will improve your work performance and productivity.

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• Stay Organised: Keep copies of all application documents, receipts, and correspondence.​

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• Use the Pomodoro technique to help you get through the steps, one step at a time. 25 min on break for 5, repeat until you have finished.

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Following these steps will help guide you through the process of applying for Access to Work and securing support for ADHD coaching and other reasonable adjustments. Good luck!