The Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a UK government benefit designed to support families with children who have disabilities or long-term health conditions. It provides financial assistance to help cover extra costs associated with care and mobility needs. The DLA is available for children who are under 16 years old and require a higher level of care or supervision than others of the same age.
Eligibility Criteria for DLA
The criteria for DLA for children are that a single condition should be so severe as to be substantially detrimental to the recipient’s daily life and mobility. Such a condition should have lasted for not less than three months on the day of your claim and must be expected to do so for at least six more months. A formal diagnosis is not needed, but medical evidence supporting the diagnosis will be required. Finally, the child has to be living in the UK.
DLA Components and Rates
DLA for children has two components: Care Component and Mobility Component. The rates of each component differ according to the extent of the needs of the child.
The Care Component is given if the child needs help with more personal care, e.g., bathing, dressing, teaching, or keeping safe. The Care Component has three different rates:
- Lower rate: Given to children who require help for a good part of the day.
- Middle rate: Provided if the child needs regular care throughout the day or following waking time at night.
- Highest rate: Given to a child who is in need of care both day and night.
The Mobility Component is granted where the child has difficulties in walking or getting about. This consists of two rates:
- Low Rate: Given for those children who need paying help while walking outside.
- Higher Rate: Given for those who have very severe walking difficulties or who cannot walk at all.
How to Apply for DLA for Children
DLA for children can be applied for by completing the DLA for children form, available from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). Parents and guardians will need to provide information on the child’s condition and needs, such as mobility and care needs. Even with the form, further evidence might be required to support their claim, such as medical reports, school reports, and then occupational and physiotherapy reports.
What Happens After Applying?
After submission, the DWP will examine your claim. The agency may ask the child to undergo medical examinations, depending on the severity of the cases. If a request for a child DLA application is approved, parents will be qualifying for fortnightly payments disbursed directly into their bank account. In case a claim is rejected, families are always given the right to challenge the decision through a mandatory reconsideration or appeal.
Additional Benefits and Support
Upon approval of the DLA application of their child, whether for the Care or Mobility Component of the DLA, families might also qualify for further support, such as Carer’s Allowance, Universal Credit, or Disabled Facilities Grants for housing adaptations. A child on the higher Mobility Component might be able to get a Motability CP to lease a special car or wheelchair.
Conclusion
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for children is thus critical in providing financial support to families raising a child with disabilities. Understanding eligibility criteria, DLA rates, and the application process can lead parents to the relief support for which they may qualify. Inquiring about whether your child would get DLA can also ease the financial pressure and contribute towards an improved quality of life.