The Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a critical benefit managed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) in the UK, providing financial support to individuals who have disabilities affecting their mobility or those who require additional care.
While DLA is being replaced by Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for adults, it continues to be available for children under 16, with around one million recipients currently benefiting from the support.
In 2024, DLA rates saw a 6.7% increase to reflect the rising cost of living, ensuring families can afford the necessary care and assistance for their children with disabilities.
The DWP has also released an updated list of 57 medical conditions that may make a child eligible for DLA, streamlining the application process and offering clarity on qualification requirements.
Introduction to DWP Disability Living Allowance
The Disability Living Allowance (DLA) supports children who need extra help due to a disability This benefit is available for children under 16 who need more care or supervision than others their age, or who face mobility difficulties.
The DLA covers a wide range of conditions, from arthritis and epilepsy to severe mental impairments, allowing families to receive financial aid for the additional support their children require.
Components and Rates
DLA comprises two main components designed to address different aspects of a child’s needs:
Care Component
This component supports children who need assistance with personal care In 2024, the rates for the Care Component, reflecting a 6.7% increase, are as follows:
- Lowest Rate: £28.70 per week for those needing occasional care
- Middle Rate: £72.66 per week for children who need frequent or continuous supervision
- Highest Rate: £108.57 per week for those who require care both day and night
Mobility Component
This component is for children who have difficulty walking or require supervision to move around The 2024 rates for the Mobility Component are:
- Lower Rate: £28.70 per week for children who need help walking outdoors
- Higher Rate: £72.66 per week for children who are unable to walk or need significant assistance outdoors due to severe sensory impairments
DWP DLA Application Process
Parents or guardians can apply for DLA on behalf of their child The application process can be done in two ways:
- Online: The official UK government website offers the DLA claim form, where applicants must provide comprehensive details about the child’s disability and how it affects their daily life
- By Phone: For those who prefer a printed form or need additional assistance, the DLA helpline is available, offering support via standard telephone, textphone, and British Sign Language (BSL) video relay services
Contact Details for Assistance
For help with the application process or inquiries, the DLA helpline can be reached:
- Telephone: 0800 121 4600
- Textphone: 0800 121 4523 (for hearing impairments)
- Relay UK: Dial 18001 followed by 0800 121 4600 for those who cannot hear or speak using a standard phone
- British Sign Language (BSL) Video Relay Service: Available during office hours for BSL users
Medical Conditions Qualifying for DLA
The DWP has outlined 57 medical conditions that may qualify a child for DLA.
Eligibility is based on how the condition impacts the child’s daily activities, particularly mobility and care requirements. Some of the conditions that may make a child eligible for DLA include:
- Arthritis
- Epilepsy
- Visual and hearing disorders
- Chronic respiratory issues such as asthma
- Neurological diseases like Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis
- Learning disabilities
- Severe mental health conditions
- Intellectual disabilities
- Autoimmune disorders
- Severe developmental disorders
- Chronic pain conditions
- Terminal illness
- Amputation
- Cerebral palsy
- Diabetes
- Infectious diseases like COVID-19 and tuberculosis
Payment Schedule and Method
DLA payments are typically made every four weeks, with the money transferred into a bank account under the recipient’s name.
If the payment date falls on a bank holiday, it is usually issued earlier to ensure recipients do not experience delays This payment method ensures that families can easily access their funds as soon as they are deposited.
Transition from DLA to Other Benefits
Once a child receiving DLA turns 16, they will transition to an appropriate adult benefit, depending on the nature of their disability. This process is managed directly by the DWP, who will guide families through the transition.
Although new applications for adults are no longer accepted, DLA continues to offer essential financial support for children under 16, adapting to the evolving needs of families while addressing the rising cost of living.
Conclusion
The Disability Living Allowance provides vital support to children with disabilities, helping families manage the added costs of care and mobility. With the 6.7% increase in payments for 2024, DLA ensures that families are better equipped to handle financial pressures.
By offering a comprehensive list of qualifying medical conditions, the DWP aims to make the application process clearer and more accessible.
Whether your child needs assistance with mobility or personal care, the DLA remains an invaluable resource to ensure they receive the help they deserve.