DWP £108 Weekly Payment 2024nditions Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a financial support provided by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) in the UK to individuals who face challenges due to specific disabilities impacting their mobility or requiring special care.
While DLA is gradually being replaced by Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for adults, it still remains available for children under 16 years of age At present, around one million people are benefiting from DLA, offering them necessary support for their daily living needs.
The DLA rates have been increased by 6.7% to reflect the rising cost of living, ensuring families continue to afford essential care and assistance.
Alongside this increase, the DWP has published an updated list of 57 medical conditions that may qualify a child for DLA, aiming to simplify the eligibility process and provide clarity for families seeking support.
Table of Contents
- Introduction to DWP Disability Living Allowance
- DLA Components and Payment Rates
- DLA Application Process
- How to Contact for Assistance
- Medical Conditions That Qualify for DLA
- Payment Schedule and Methods
- Transition from DLA to Other Benefits
Introduction to DWP Disability Living Allowance
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a crucial benefit for children under 16 who need additional care or supervision due to a disability.
Whether a child has mobility difficulties or requires more attention than other children of the same age, DLA offers financial assistance to cover these extra needs The DWP has outlined a list of 57 qualifying medical conditions, including arthritis, epilepsy, and severe mental health conditions, which can make a child eligible for DLA.
DLA Components and Payment Rates
DLA consists of two key components: the Care Component and the Mobility Component, each serving different needs. For 2024, these components have been adjusted to reflect a 6.7% increase in rates, helping families manage the increased costs of care and mobility support.
- Care Component: This component is intended for individuals who need extra help with personal care. The payment rates are:
- Lowest Rate: £28.70 per week for those requiring part-time care.
- Middle Rate: £72.66 per week for individuals needing frequent assistance or continuous supervision.
- Highest Rate: £108.57 per week for those needing round-the-clock care.
- Mobility Component: This component is for children with mobility difficulties, either requiring help walking or guidance when moving. The rates are:
- Lower Rate: £28.70 per week for those needing assistance when walking outdoors.
- Higher Rate: £72.66 per week for children who cannot walk or require significant assistance due to severe impairments.
DLA Application Process
To apply for DLA for a child, the application must be submitted by the child’s parent or someone in a parental role Applications can be made in two ways:
- Online: The official DLA application form is available on the UK government’s website, where you will need to provide comprehensive details about the child’s condition and its impact on their daily activities.
- By Phone: Those who prefer a printed form or need assistance can contact the DLA helpline This service provides support via standard telephone, textphone (for those with hearing impairments), and a British Sign Language (BSL) video relay service for BSL users.
How to Contact for Assistance
If you need help during the application process or have questions, the DLA helpline is available:
- 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 (Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm)
Medical Conditions That Qualify for DLA
The DWP has specified 57 medical conditions that can make a child eligible for DLA, based on how the condition affects their mobility or care needs These conditions include, but are not limited to.
- Arthritis
- Epilepsy
- Heart disease
- Respiratory diseases like asthma and cystic fibrosis
- Neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis
- Chronic pain syndromes
- Diabetes
- Learning disabilities
- Severe mental impairments
- Vision and hearing disorders
- Cerebrovascular diseases
- Skin diseases
- Terminal illnesses
The eligibility for DLA is determined by how these conditions impact a child’s day-to-day life, particularly in terms of the assistance they need for mobility and personal care.
Payment Schedule and Methods
DLA is typically paid every four weeks, with payments made on a Wednesday If a payment date falls on a bank holiday, payments are usually made earlier to ensure recipients receive their funds on time. The benefit is paid directly into the recipient’s bank account, whether a current or basic account, ensuring the funds are secure and readily accessible.
Transition from DLA to Other Benefits
As children reach the age of 16, they will transition from DLA to the appropriate adult benefits based on their disability and living circumstances.
This transition process is managed by the DWP, and individuals will receive direct guidance from the benefits authorities to ensure a smooth changeover.
While new adult applications for DLA are no longer accepted, this benefit continues to support children, adapting to the cost of living and providing vital financial aid to families in need.
Conclusion
Disability Living Allowance remains an essential financial support for children with disabilities, helping families manage the additional costs associated with care and mobility difficulties With the recent 6.7% increase in rates and the updated list of qualifying medical conditions, the DWP continues to offer vital assistance to ensure children’s needs are met.
By understanding the application process, eligibility criteria, and payment schedule, families can effectively access the support they require.