ADHD

ADHD, work and benefits

ADHD often counts as a disability in law. Simple changes at work can help, and benefits may be available if ADHD affects daily life.

Written by Neil Hyde Last checked 1 minute read

Your rights at work

ADHD can count as a disability under the Equality Act 2010 if it has a substantial, long-term effect on your daily life, judged as if you were not taking medicine. You do not always need a formal diagnosis to ask for support. Reasonable adjustments can include:

  • written instructions and clear priorities
  • a quieter workspace or noise-cancelling headphones
  • regular check-ins with your manager
  • flexible hours, or breaks to move around
  • software for planning, reminders or dictation

Access to Work can pay for coaching, equipment and software.

Driving

You must tell the DVLA if your ADHD affects your ability to drive safely. Check GOV.UK for the current rules.

Benefits

PIP is based on how ADHD affects you on most days. ADHD can affect:

  • preparing food: forgetting food on the hob, or needing prompting to cook
  • managing treatment: needing reminders to take medicine
  • managing money: needing help with budgeting or bills
  • planning and following journeys: getting lost or distracted on unfamiliar routes

Children with ADHD may qualify for DLA if they need much more supervision or care than other children their age, for example to keep them safe.

Free self-check

PIP points self-check

Go through the 12 PIP activities one at a time and see roughly how many points may apply to you.

About 10 minutes. Your answers never leave your device.

Sources we used

We check this page at least once a year, and sooner when the rules change. Read how we check our facts, or tell us if something looks wrong.