The Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a vital benefit administered by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to assist individuals with disabilities that impact their mobility or require extra care. While DLA is being phased out for adults, it remains available to children under the age of 16 who have specific needs. The total number of people currently receiving DLA is approximately one million.
DLA Rate Increase for 2024
To keep pace with the rising cost of living, DLA rates for 2024 have been increased by 6.7%. This ensures that families can continue to afford the care and support their children need without unnecessary financial strain. In addition, the DWP has released a detailed list of 57 medical conditions that may qualify a child for DLA. This update helps streamline the application process and clarify eligibility for families.
Table of Contents
- Introduction to DWP Disability Living Allowance
- Components and Rates
- DWP DLA Application Process
- Contact Details for Assistance
- Medical Conditions Qualifying for DLA
- Payment Schedule and Method
- Transition from DLA to Other Benefits
Introduction to DWP Disability Living Allowance
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a key financial support scheme for children under 16 in the UK who need extra help with their personal care or mobility. DLA offers families financial assistance based on the severity of the child’s condition. The DLA is being replaced for adults by Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and other related benefits, but it remains available for children.
Disability Living Allowance £108/Week Payment
The increase in DLA rates has allowed families to receive better support, especially for children requiring more extensive care or assistance. The highest rate of care support for 2024 is £108.57 per week, a rise from previous amounts.
Components and Rates
DLA is made up of two main components: Care Component and Mobility Component, both of which have their own rates.
- Care Component: This component is for children who need help with personal care. Rates for 2024 are as follows:
- Lowest Rate: £28.70 per week – for those needing part-time help.
- Middle Rate: £72.66 per week – for those needing frequent assistance or supervision throughout the day or night.
- Highest Rate: £108.57 per week – for those needing care throughout both day and night.
- Mobility Component: This component is for those who have difficulties with walking or need assistance when moving around. The rates for 2024 are:
- Lower Rate: £28.70 per week – for children who can walk but need guidance outdoors.
- Higher Rate: £72.66 per week – for those who are unable to walk or require significant assistance when outdoors.
DWP DLA Application Process
To apply for DLA for a child, the application must be submitted by the parent or someone in a parental role. The process can be done in two ways:
- Online Application: The application form is available on the official UK government website. Applicants need to provide detailed information about their child’s condition and how it impacts daily life.
- Phone Application: For those who need assistance with completing the form, a helpline is available. This helpline offers support via regular telephone, textphone (for hearing impairments), and British Sign Language (BSL) video relay services.
Contact Details for Assistance
For those needing assistance or who have questions regarding the application process, the DLA helpline can be contacted:
- Telephone: 0800 121 4600
- Textphone: 0800 121 4523 (for those with hearing impairments)
- Relay UK: Dial 18001 followed by 0800 121 4600 (for those unable to hear or speak using a standard telephone)
- British Sign Language (BSL) Video Relay Service: Available Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm.
Medical Conditions Qualifying for DLA
To be eligible for DLA, the child must have a medical condition that affects their care needs or mobility. The DWP has published a list of 57 conditions that may qualify a child for this benefit. Some of the most common conditions include:
- Arthritis
- Visual and hearing disorders
- Epilepsy
- Neurological diseases (e.g., multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease)
- Traumatic paraplegia/tetraplegia
- Learning difficulties
- Psychosis and other mental health conditions
- Chronic pain syndromes
- Respiratory disorders (e.g., asthma, cystic fibrosis)
- Severe developmental and intellectual disabilities
- Multiple allergy syndrome
- Severe developmental disorders
This extensive list provides a broad range of medical conditions, ensuring that children with various needs are considered for support.
Payment Schedule and Method
DLA payments are made every four weeks on a Wednesday. If the payment date coincides with a bank holiday, the payment will typically be made earlier. The funds are deposited directly into the recipient’s bank account, allowing immediate access to the support funds.
Transition from DLA to Other Benefits
As children with DLA reach the age of 16, they will transition to other benefits, such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP), depending on the nature of their disability. The DWP provides guidance to help manage this transition smoothly, ensuring that individuals continue to receive the support they need as they grow older.
Conclusion
The Disability Living Allowance (DLA) continues to play an important role in supporting families with children who have disabilities. With a recent 6.7% increase in the rates and a clear list of 57 qualifying medical conditions, DLA provides essential financial assistance for children who need extra care or help with mobility.
