Access to Work Reform Ignores Self-Employed Neurodivergent People
In the planned changes to Access to Work self-employed neurodivergent are ignored.
The UK government has released its new Pathways to Work Green Paper, outlining major changes to benefits and employment support.
But in the planned changes to Access to Work self-employed neurodivergent are ignored.
There is no mention of self-employment anywhere in the entire document, not even in the section on Access to Work reform.
Why This Is a Problem
Self-employment isn’t a nice-to-have for many of us.
It’s the only way we can work sustainably.
For people with ADHD, autism, or other forms of neurodivergence, traditional employment is often inaccessible.
We choose self-employment to:
- Work flexibly
- Reduce sensory overload
- Avoid rigid structures
- Manage our mental health
But being your own boss doesn’t mean you don’t need support.
What Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs Need
Access to Work is meant to level the playing field.
But right now, it’s designed almost entirely around people with employers. That’s a huge issue for those of us who:
- Work alone
- Don’t have HR departments
- Need specialist tools and coaching to keep going
Self-employed people need access to:
- Assistive technology
- Communication tools
- Coaching and mentoring
- Admin support
- Mental health accommodations
These are not optional extras.
They’re essential.
What the Government Proposes
The Green Paper introduces some key ideas:
- Replacing the Work Capability Assessment
- Streamlining Universal Credit processes
- Reforming Access to Work
- Offering “support conversations” instead of assessments
These changes focus entirely on employed individuals.
There’s no plan for how support will reach freelancers, contractors, or microbusiness owners.
A Missed Opportunity for True Inclusion
The government says it wants to create a “pro-work” benefit system.
But by ignoring self-employed disabled people, it shows a narrow understanding of what work actually looks like today.
We are:
- Building businesses
- Creating jobs
- Paying taxes
- Supporting our communities
We deserve to be part of the conversation.
What Needs to Change
To make Access to Work fair for everyone, the government must:
- Recognise self-employed people in policy and reform documents
- Provide dedicated funding routes for freelancers
- Streamline the application process for those without employers
- Actively involve neurodivergent entrepreneurs in consultation
Have Your Say
The consultation on the Pathways to Work Green Paper is now open.
If you’re self-employed and neurodivergent—or if you support someone who is—this is your moment.
Your voice matters.
Tell your story.
Demand better.
Because we’re already working.
We just need a system that works for us too.