Do you feel like your ADHD is holding you back in business?
If so, you're not alone.
Running a business with ADHD can feel a tad overwhelming at times.
Yep, you've got the freedom to set your hours and work on projects that you're passionate about.
But...
On the other hand, you might face challenges such as staying organised, meeting deadlines, and managing your time effectively.
Well...
I've got some GREAT news for YOU.
There's help out there in the form of Access to Work funding.
Access to Work is a government scheme in the UK that provides practical support (in my client's case Admin & Marketing Support) to disabled people and those who are neurodiverse.
The scheme provides financial assistance for special equipment, job aide support workers, and travel expenses and is open to both employed and self-employed individuals.
In this blog post, we cover everything you need to know about Access to Work Job Aide Support
Including...
Who can benefit from Access to Work Virtual Assistant support?
How can a Virtual Assistant help me with my ADHD?
Am I eligible for the Access to Work Grant?
How do I apply for the Access to Work Grant?
Tips for a successful Access to Work Grant application.
If you have ADHD, think of this as your ultimate Access to Work step-by-step guide to getting the support you need, to achieve your goals.
Who can benefit from Access to Work virtual assistant support?
Anyone who has a disability or health condition such as ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia or Autism that makes it hard for them to do their job, can benefit from Access to Work virtual assistant job aide support.
How can a VA help me with my ADHD?
A Virtual Assistant can provide a variety of support to help you manage your ADHD in your business.
Let me share a few examples:
Accountability: A VA can help you stay focused and on tasks.
Time management: They can help you to create and stick to a schedule.
Organisation: VAs can help you stay on top of your workload/priorities.
Admin: A VA can take care of administrative tasks such as answering emails, scheduling appointments, and managing your calendar.
Problem-Solving Assistance: Assist in problem-solving, offering a different perspective and creative solutions to challenges.
Marketing: A VA can create content that reaches your target audience and resonates with your community. No more social media overwhelm.
Am I eligible for the Access to Work Grant?
The eligibility criteria for the Access to Work grant is pretty simple, you must:
Be aged 16 or over
Live and work in England, Scotland, or Wales
Have a disability or health condition that has a significant impact on your ability to do your job such as ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia and Autism.
Be in paid work. Both employed and self-employed individuals qualify (or be about to start or return to paid work in the next 12 weeks)
How do I apply for the Access to Work Grant?
To apply for the Access to Work Grant, head over to https://www.gov.uk/access-to-work and fill out an application form as well as provide evidence of your disability or health condition.
The Access to Work Grant approval process can take up to 3 months. However, there are a few things you can do to help speed up the process:
Gather evidence of your ADHD ahead of time. This could include a diagnosis letter from your doctor or a report from a psychologist.
Think about what kind of support you need. What would help you to do your job more effectively? Do you need specialist software? Coaching? Job Aide PA/Admin support?
Once you have submitted your application, an Access to Work Case Worker will contact you to discuss your needs in more depth.
Tips for a successful Access to Work Grant application.
So that you don't waste time and you're fully prepared for when your Access to Worker Case Worker contacts you, follow these simple steps:
Gather enough evidence of your ADHD. Make sure to attach any relevant medical reports to your application. Explain how your ADHD impacts your ability to run your business.
Be specific enough about the support you need. What kind of software, coaching, or Job Aide Support such as a Virtual Assistant?
Have your Access to Work job aide quote available. Your Case Worker will ask you to provide a job aide quote for VA support. No worries, I've created a downloadable submittable VA quote right here https://www.lorrainefreelancepa.com/atw
Be realistic about your needs. Don't ask for more support than you need. And be prepared to negotiate with your Access to Work Case Worker.
The Access to Work Grant can be a lifesaver for people with ADHD who are struggling at work.
If you're a business owner with ADHD and you are struggling to manage your condition, don't hesitate to apply for the Access to Work Grant today, and if you need any help please get in touch! UK Virtual Assistant Contact Lorraine | Lorraine Freelance PA | Bristol
We’re experienced in working closely with business owners and entrepreneurs who are neurodiverse. We’ll make your life easier, get things done and help you achieve your goals.