What is Disability Living Allowance?

In the landscape of support for individuals with disabilities in the UK, the Disability Living Allowance (DLA) stands out as a vital benefit designed to help cover the extra costs that can arise from living with a disability. This non-means-tested allowance is aimed at providing financial support to those who need help with mobility or care, ensuring they can maintain a level of independence and quality of life. Here's an overview of what DLA is, who is eligible, and how it can make a difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families.

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Understanding Disability Living Allowance

DLA is a benefit available to children under 16 living in England and Wales who have difficulty walking or need more looking after than a child of the same age who doesn’t have a disability. Children living in Scotland should apply for Child Disability Payment instead. This allowance is divided into two components: the Care Component and the Mobility Component. Each component has different rates (lowest, middle, and highest), depending on the level of need.

Adults can no longer apply for DLA although they may still receive payments through it; adults should instead apply for PIP or Adult Disability Payment [link].

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Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility for DLA is based on the child’s needs, not on any specific diagnosis. To qualify for the Care Component, the child must need significantly more care, supervision, or attention than other children of the same age. For the Mobility Component, the child must have considerable difficulty walking or getting around. It’s important to note that DLA is not means-tested, meaning it is available regardless of the family's income or savings; it's based purely on the child's needs.

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Applying for DLA

Applications for DLA can be made using a printed form available from the government website (you can also ring a government helpline to ask for a form) The form asks detailed questions about the child's daily needs, mobility issues, and how their disability affects them. Providing thorough and detailed answers, backed up by reports from medical professionals or therapists, can help ensure the application accurately reflects the child's needs.

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Impact of DLA

Receiving DLA can significantly impact a child's life and their family. Financially, it helps address the extra costs associated with disabilities, such as special diets, heating, transportation, or specific therapies not covered by the NHS. Beyond the financial support, DLA can also serve as a gateway to other forms of assistance, including Carer’s Allowance for the person who cares for the child and possibly exemption from vehicle tax for those eligible for the higher rate of the Mobility Component.

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Transitioning from DLA

It’s important to note that once a child receiving DLA turns 16, they will need to apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP), the benefit that replaced DLA for adults. The transition from DLA to PIP involves a new assessment process, focusing on how the individual's condition affects them rather than the condition itself.

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If you or your child receives DLA, then you are eligible to apply for a National Disability Card - easy to carry visual ID that allows you to discreetly communicate your needs to others and get the assistance you require. The National Disability Card also serves as proof of eligibility for a range of concessions at Better leisure centres, Disneyland Paris, Europa Park, Banham Zoo, and many other venues. Secure your National Disability Card by applying today.