Written by Pedro Garcia, BACP-registered counsellor based in Greenwich and London Bridge. I offer therapy in English and Spanish, both online and in person, supporting clients with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, or LGBTQIA+ challenges.

I believe therapy should be open and accessible to everyone. That’s why I wanted to share this post about Access to Work,  a government grant that can make therapy more affordable and available to those who might not know this support exists.

• What Is Access to Work?

Many people are surprised to learn that the UK government can actually help fund their therapy sessions through a grant called Access to Work.

If you live with a mental health or physical condition that makes aspects of work challenging (or if you’re returning to work after some time off), this scheme could help cover the cost of counselling or psychotherapy.

Access to Work is a government-funded grant that offers practical and financial support to people with physical or mental health conditions or disabilities.

The aim is to help you start, stay in, or return to work by removing barriers and providing resources such as therapy, assistive equipment, or travel support.

It’s important to know that this is not a loan or a benefit. You don’t have to pay it back, and it won’t affect any other benefits you receive.

You can find full details and apply directly through the Access to Work Website

• Who Can Apply?

You can apply for the Access to Work grant if you:

• • Have a physical or mental health condition or disability that affects your ability to do your job or get to and from work.

  • Are 16 or over.

  • Are in paid work, self-employed, or about to start or return to paid work within the next 12 weeks.

If you meet these conditions, you can apply online through the Access to Work website

• What Access to Work users Say About their experience

I’ve spoken with several people who are currently funded by Access to Work, and their experiences have been mostly positive.

They found the process straightforward once started, and most felt that the grant allowed them to focus more on their well-being rather than worrying about costs.

The main feedback they shared is that, due to high demand, the application and reimbursement process can take time (sometimes around six months before the government begins funding or refunding your therapy sessions.)

Still, many have said that it’s well worth the wait once funding is approved, as it provides a long-term route to affordable counselling.

• Final Thoughts

Therapy can make a profound difference in how you navigate life and work. helping you feel more balanced, confident, and connected.

If finances have been a barrier, Access to Work might be the opportunity to begin therapy without additional stress. It’s one of those resources that not everyone knows about, yet it can open doors to real and lasting support.

If you think this might apply to you, I’d encourage you to visit the Access to Work website to learn more about the process and how to apply.

At Pedro Garcia Counselling, I work with clients who access therapy through this scheme, offering trauma-informed, person-centred support in English or Spanish , both online and in-person in Greenwich and London Bridge.

Take your time, explore your options, and reach out to a counsellor you feel comfortable with, whether that’s me or someone else who feels like the right fit.

Getting the right support can make all the difference, and it’s good to know there’s help available to make that possible.

Pedro Garcia
BACP-registered counsellor
Online and London-based therapy in English and Spanish.
Supporting clients with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD and LGBTQIA+ wellbeing.