The Disability Living Allowance (DLA) offers vital financial support to children in the UK who have disabilities, helping with additional care and mobility needs. Although the DLA is being phased out for adults and replaced by Personal Independence Payment (PIP), it continues to serve children under the age of 16. With a 6.7% increase in rates for 2024, the DLA aims to assist families in covering the rising costs associated with caring for children with disabilities.
This adjustment ensures families can continue to provide the necessary support for their children without facing undue financial hardship. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has also updated its list of 57 medical conditions that qualify children for DLA, making it easier for families to understand the eligibility requirements and navigate the application process.
Understanding DLA and Its Purpose
DLA is designed for children under 16 who require more care or supervision than children of the same age, due to a disability or mobility issues. The benefit is divided into two components: the Care Component and the Mobility Component, with each addressing different needs. The 2024 rate increase reflects the current economic climate, ensuring the allowance helps families cope with rising living costs.
DLA Components and Rates for 2024
Care Component
This component is meant to help children who need extra assistance with personal care:
- Lowest Rate: £28.70 per week (for children needing occasional care)
- Middle Rate: £72.66 per week (for children requiring regular or continuous assistance)
- Highest Rate: £108.57 per week (for children needing constant care both day and night)
Mobility Component
This component assists children with mobility difficulties:
- Lower Rate: £28.70 per week (for children who can walk but need supervision or help when outdoors)
- Higher Rate: £72.66 per week (for children who are unable to walk or need substantial assistance outdoors)
How to Apply for DLA
Parents or guardians of children who need additional care can apply for DLA in two ways:
- Online Application
The DLA claim form is available on the official UK government website. It is essential to provide detailed information about the child’s condition and its impact on daily life. - Phone Application
If you prefer a printed form or require assistance, the DLA helpline is available. It offers services via standard phone, textphone for those with hearing impairments, and British Sign Language (BSL) video relay services during office hours.
DLA Helpline Contact Information:
- Telephone: 0800 121 4600
- Textphone: 0800 121 4523 (for hearing impairments)
- Relay UK: Dial 18001 followed by 0800 121 4600 for those who are unable to speak or hear via a standard phone
- BSL Video Relay Service: Available during office hours (9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday) for BSL users
57 Qualifying Medical Conditions for DLA
The DWP has compiled a list of 57 conditions that can make a child eligible for DLA. These conditions cover a wide range of health issues that impact mobility, care, and cognitive functions. Some of the qualifying conditions include:
Physical Conditions:
- Arthritis
- Epilepsy
- Heart disease
- Cerebral palsy
- Spinal injuries
- Traumatic paraplegia/tetraplegia
- Vision and hearing impairments
Neurological Conditions:
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson’s disease
- Motor neurone disease
- Chronic pain syndromes
Cognitive and Developmental Conditions:
- Learning difficulties
- Autism spectrum disorders
- Severe intellectual disabilities
- Severe developmental disorders
Mental Health Conditions:
- Psychosis
- Personality disorders
- Dementia
- Behavioural disorders
Other Health Issues:
- Severe allergies
- Malignant diseases (e.g., cancer)
- Infectious diseases (e.g., tuberculosis, COVID-19)
- Amputations
- Autoimmune disorders
- Chronic respiratory disorders
A full list of the 57 conditions can be found on the official DWP website, or parents can consult a healthcare professional for further guidance.
Payment Schedule and Method
DLA payments are made every four weeks, typically on Wednesdays. If the payment date coincides with a bank holiday, the DWP may process the payment earlier. Payments are deposited directly into a recipient’s bank account, providing quick access to the funds.
Transitioning from DLA to Other Benefits
As children receiving DLA turn 16, they will transition to the appropriate adult benefits, such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP), depending on their condition and eligibility. The DWP will provide guidance throughout this process.
Although new DLA applications for adults are no longer being accepted, the benefit continues to provide essential support for children under 16, helping families meet the needs of children with disabilities.
Conclusion
The Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is an essential benefit that helps families manage the care and mobility needs of children with disabilities. The 6.7% increase in rates for 2024 ensures that families can continue to provide the care their children need without facing significant financial pressure. With the updated list of 57 qualifying medical conditions, the DWP has made it easier for families to understand eligibility and apply for this important benefit.