Disability Information UKPlain-language information, rights and support

Supported employment and job coaching

How supported employment schemes and job coaches help disabled people, including those with learning disabilities or autism, find and keep paid work.

Guidance, not legal advice. This page summarises official UK sources listed below. What applies to you depends on your circumstances and nation.

Last reviewed
1 August 2026
Next review due
1 February 2027

What supported employment is

Supported employment usually follows a 'place, train and maintain' approach: helping someone into a real, paid job first, then providing on-the-job training and support, gradually reducing (fading) as confidence grows.

What a job coach might do

  • Help match your skills and interests to a suitable role
  • Support you and your employer to agree adjustments before you start
  • Provide on-the-job coaching in the early weeks, then step back gradually
  • Stay available for occasional support if things change

Who provides it

Supported employment is often delivered by local authorities, NHS-linked services, or specialist charities, and can sometimes be combined with Access to Work funding for a support worker.

Checklist

  • Ask your local council or GP about local supported employment services
  • Ask whether Access to Work could fund part of a job coach's time
  • Discuss with any coach how and when support will reduce over time

Where to get help