Access to Work grant questions

Pinkity

Hi

I am disabled and autistic. Due to my disabilities, I had to give up work in 2018 and was diagnosed with autism in 2021. I have been living off the proceeds from the sale of my house, but they will not last forever. I have recently set up an Etsy shop with my digital artwork, in the hope of earning something of a living for the future. However, because of my autism, my executive functioning is pants and I can not get to grips with, or understand, the SEO or marketing or anything that will improve my sales, or run the shop properly. Basically, all I can do is the artwork! I contacted a digital marketer who specialises in working with neurodivergent people and she suggested that I might be eligible for an Access to Work grant to cover support for these issues that I can't manage myself. I've been self-employed before and failed for exactly these reasons.

So my question is - does anyone have any knowledge or experience of an ATW grant being given for this kind of assistance? Thanks :)

Albus_Scope

Hi @Pinkity sorry to hear you had to give up work, I know how rubbish that can feel, but I'm glad to hear you're taking advantage of Etsy. 😊

I have an ATW grant for my autistic needs, it can take a while to get sorted, but it's definitely worth going for. I know the new government mentioned they wanted to put more money into the scheme, so now's a great time to apply! 😁

Pinkity

Thank you! I'll look into it.