Advice needed: Access to Work application – I’m on probation and it takes up to 30 weeks?!

[KeenTaupeDog]

Hey everyone,
I’ve just applied for the Access to Work scheme today and got the confirmation email saying it can take up to 30 weeks before they contact me 😬

Here’s my situation:

• I started my current job in September 2025
• I’m still on probation until March
• I’m neurodivergent (dyslexia and dyspraxia) and currently waiting for workplace support
• My employer has also referred me to Genius Within for coaching and adjustments

I’m worried that the Access to Work process will take too long and my probation might end before any support is actually in place. Has anyone been through this recently?

• Is there any way to expedite the process (for example, if you’re on probation)?
• Or should I just rely on my employer’s Genius Within process in the meantime?
• Any tips on what actually helps speed things up (calling, emailing, contacting your MP, etc.)?

Also, just to mention — I have dyspraxia and dyslexia, so I used ChatGPT to help me write this post clearly. Hope that’s okay! Would really appreciate any advice or shared experiences 🙏

Hi I think 30 weeks may be the fast track! It's worth calling them to find out. They normally prioritise people who are new in post.

There's a Facebook group access to work UK where you can often get an accurate idea of wait time or you can call them and they will tell you when they are processing applications from. I don't think you will be able to speed it up IMHO.

I got awarded coaching from Genius Within. It was helpful. I also personally found active noise cancelling headphones and loop switches to be a game changer - loop switches are good as you can still have a normal conversation - never realised how tiring noise is!