The Disability Living Allowance (DLA), managed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), offers vital financial support for children under 16 with disabilities that affect their mobility or require additional care.
While DLA for adults has transitioned to Personal Independence Payment (PIP), it remains essential for children, providing a safety net for families navigating the challenges of raising a child with disabilities.
With a recent increase in rates to address the rising cost of living, the DWP ensures that this benefit continues to meet the needs of eligible children. Additionally, a detailed list of 57 medical conditions has been released, simplifying the eligibility process for families.
DWP £108 Weekly Payment
DLA provides financial aid to families with children who need extra care or have mobility difficulties due to various medical conditions. The benefit is split into two components—care and mobility—each with specific rates based on the level of need.
Components
Care Component
This portion supports families whose children require help with personal care or supervision. For 2024, the rates include:
| Rate | Weekly Amount | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest Rate | £28.70 | Part-time care needs |
| Middle Rate | £72.66 | Frequent assistance or day/night supervision |
| Highest Rate | £108.57 | Continuous care needed throughout both day and night |
Mobility Component
This component aids those with significant walking difficulties or who need supervision outdoors:
| Rate | Weekly Amount | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | £28.70 | Guidance needed when walking outdoors |
| Higher Rate | £72.66 | Severe walking limitations or sensory impairments |
Application Process
Families can apply for DLA through the following methods:
- Online: Access the DLA claim form on the UK government website and provide detailed information about the child’s condition.
- By Phone: Call the DLA helpline to request a printed form or seek assistance. Support is available through textphone, Relay UK, and British Sign Language (BSL) video relay services during business hours.
Contact Information
- Telephone: 0800 121 4600
- Textphone: 0800 121 4523
- Relay UK: Dial 18001 followed by 0800 121 4600
- BSL Video Relay Service: Available Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm
Qualifying Conditions
The DWP’s updated list of 57 medical conditions highlights the wide range of disabilities that can qualify a child for DLA. This list includes:
- Physical Conditions: Arthritis, amputation, motor neurone disease, chronic pain syndromes, visual and hearing impairments
- Neurological Conditions: Epilepsy, cognitive disorders, dementia, severe developmental disorders
- Mental Health: Psychosis, personality disorders, severe intellectual disabilities
- Chronic Illnesses: Diabetes, cystic fibrosis, inflammatory bowel disease
- Infectious Diseases: Tuberculosis, COVID-19, malaria
Eligibility is not limited to these conditions; the determining factor is how the disability affects the child’s care and mobility needs.
Payment Details
DLA payments are made every four weeks, typically on a Wednesday. If the payment date coincides with a bank holiday, the payment is advanced. The funds are deposited directly into a bank account to ensure quick and secure access.
Transition to Adult Benefits
When a child reaches 16, their benefits transition to adult-specific programs, such as PIP. Families are notified and guided through the process, ensuring continuous support.
DLA remains a critical lifeline for families with disabled children. The recent updates, including rate increases and the clarified list of medical conditions, ensure this support keeps pace with the evolving needs of society.
