Defending Access to Work for ADHD and Neurodivergent Employees 

Recent headlines have conflated online ADHD discussions with rising diagnoses, unfairly targeting the UK’s highly effective disability support program, Access to Work. Such misrepresentation endangers public support for vital disability services and fuels harmful stereotypes. Let’s set the record straight. 

Contrary to claims, the suggestion that AtW spends £69,000 annually per ADHD applicant is misleading. Official statistics reveal far lower averages for neurodivergent conditions: 

• Dyslexia: £4,997 

• Learning disabilities: £4,451 

• Mental health conditions: £1,774 

Given that the average UK salary of £37,430 generates upwards of £9,000 in income tax, the program delivers a benefit-to-cost ratio of at least 2:1. Across all conditions, the average spend is £5,465, equating to a 1.65:1 ratio. This excludes broader societal benefits like reduced unemployment and better mental health outcomes. 

Debunking the ADHD ‘Sickfluencers’ Myth 

Reports linking ADHD influencers to a crisis in Access to Work applications are baseless. Studies suggest 2 million UK adults likely have ADHD, yet only 32,000 neurodivergent individuals received Access to Work support last year. Encouraging referrals to AtW is beneficial, as it prevents job loss and reduces reliance on NHS or Universal Credit. 

Cost-Effective Adjustments Drive Productivity 

AtW funds simple but impactful adjustments like work coaches, noise-cancelling headphones, and smartwatches—tools essential for neurodivergent employees to thrive: 

• Work coaches boost productivity by 50%. 

• Noise-cancelling headphones enhance focus and reduce stress. 

• Smartwatches help manage time-blindness and self-care. 

These affordable investments, often under £1,000, empower employees and deliver lifelong rewards. 

Protecting a Vital Program 

Access to Work is not just a lifeline for individuals—it’s a smart economic strategy. By enabling neurodivergent professionals to succeed, we support careers, reduce healthcare costs, and drive productivity. 

It’s time to celebrate programs like Access to Work for their immense value, not undermine them with misinformation. 

For the full article, visit Forbes. 

(This article was first authored by Dr. Nancy Doyle in her capacity as a contributing author for Forbes.com, published on Jan 21, 2025)