Living With Arthritis
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Access to Work for arthritis: UK workplace support explained

What is Access to Work?

Access to Work is a UK Government scheme that provides practical and financial support to people with a physical or mental health condition or disability, to help them get or stay in work. It can pay for things that are not covered by employers under their duty to make reasonable adjustments. The scheme is available to employees, self-employed people, and those starting a new job.

Who Can Apply?

You can apply if you:

  • Have a disability, long-term health condition (including rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, or other musculoskeletal conditions), or mental health condition
  • Are aged 16 or over
  • Are in paid employment or about to start work
  • Live and work in England, Scotland, or Wales

What Can Access to Work Fund?

  • Special equipment or adaptations to existing equipment
  • Changes to the working environment
  • Travel to and from work if you cannot use public transport
  • A support worker or job coach
  • Mental health support through an Employment Assistance Programme
  • Video relay services and communication support

How to Apply

You can apply online via the Government's Access to Work website, or by phone. A workplace assessment may be arranged to identify your needs. Grants awarded can vary significantly depending on individual circumstances.

Employer Responsibilities

Under the Equality Act 2010, employers must make reasonable adjustments for employees with a disability or long-term condition. Access to Work is designed to complement — not replace — these adjustments. Adjustments might include flexible working hours, ergonomic equipment, or modified duties.

Arthritis-specific workplace examples

People with arthritis often use Access to Work for sit-stand desks, ergonomic chairs, vertical mice, voice recognition software, parking closer to the entrance, or taxi fares during flares when public transport is not realistic. Self-employed people can also apply. Bring a short flare diary to any assessment so bad days are visible, not only good ones.

  • Dictation software when hand or wrist arthritis slows typing
  • Supportive seating and desk height for spinal or hip OA
  • Travel support when morning stiffness makes commuting unreliable

Next steps after you apply

While you wait for a decision, talk to your manager or HR about Equality Act reasonable adjustments, and ask occupational health for a workstation review if one is available. If benefits questions sit alongside work worries, use the PIP guide and evidence diary so you are not juggling blank forms alone.

This is general information, not a substitute for personalised medical advice.

Frequently asked questions

Who can apply for Access to Work with arthritis?

You can usually apply if you are 16 or over, live and work in England, Scotland or Wales, are in paid work or about to start, and have a long-term condition such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis or another musculoskeletal condition that affects how you do your job.

What can Access to Work pay for?

Common awards include specialist equipment or adaptations, changes to the working environment, travel to work if public transport is not manageable, a support worker or job coach, and some mental health support. Exact awards depend on individual assessment.

How do I apply for Access to Work?

Apply online via GOV.UK Access to Work or by phone. A workplace assessment may follow. You can apply before starting a new role or while already employed. Keep notes on flare days, tasks you struggle with, and equipment that already helps.

Does Access to Work replace reasonable adjustments?

No. Under the Equality Act 2010, employers must still consider reasonable adjustments such as flexible hours, extra breaks or modified duties. Access to Work is designed for support that goes beyond what is reasonable for the employer alone.

Can I claim PIP and Access to Work together?

Yes. PIP looks at daily living and mobility; Access to Work looks at workplace support. Many people use both. Start with our Benefits & PIP hub for claim prep, then use this page for workplace grants.