The British government has a range of financial benefits for families bringing up children with disabilities, illnesses or health conditions, including autism.
Among these benefits is Disability Living Allowance (DLA), a non-means-tested allowance managed by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). This allowance is designed to help with the additional costs of caring for a child with special needs under the age of 16.
What is DLA, and Who Qualifies?
Disability Living Allowance (DLA), often referred to as Child Disability Living Allowance, is a tax-free benefit designed to help families offset the extra costs of caring for a child with a disability or long-term condition.
Crucially, Child Support Allowance is not diagnosis-specific, meaning that simply being diagnosed with autism does not automatically entitle a child to the allowance.
However, many children on the autistic spectrum do meet the eligibility criteria for DLA, as this benefit takes into account the level of additional care and supervision required by the child as a result of their condition. The benefit is awarded at varying rates depending on the child's specific needs.
Recognising Signs of Autistic Children
Although a diagnosis of autism is not a prerequisite for receiving DLA, knowing the common signs and symptoms of autism can help families identify a possible entitlement. The early identification and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for children on the autism spectrum.
Signs of Autism in Young Children
- Not responding to their name
- Avoiding eye contact
- Lack of social smiling
- Sensitivity to certain tastes, smells, or sounds
- Repetitive movements or behaviors (e.g., hand flapping, rocking)
- Delayed or limited speech development
- Reduced pretend play
- Repeating phrases or words
Signs of Autism in Older Children
- Difficulty understanding others' thoughts and feelings
- Unusual speech patterns or repetitive language
- Preference for strict routines and resistance to change
- Intense interests in specific subjects or activities
- Challenges with following instructions or requests
- Difficulties in making and maintaining friendships
- Tendency to interpret language literally
- Struggles in expressing emotions or feelings
DLA Allowance Amount and Application Process
DLA is composed of two elements: the care element and the mobility element. Depending on your child's specific needs, he or she may qualify for one or both components, each with different rates of payment.
Care Component
The care element is paid depending on the level of care and supervision your child's condition requires. It is divided into three rates:
- Lowest Rate: £28.70 per week
- Middle Rate: £62.92 per week
- Highest Rate: £101.75 per week
Mobility Component
The mobility component looks at your child's ability to walk and find their way in unfamiliar environments. It is divided into two rates:
- Lower Rate: £28.70 per week
- Higher Rate: £67.00 per week
Together, the maximum weekly amount of the two components is £184.30, which represents substantial financial support for families caring for children with a disability or significant health problem.
Application Process
Claiming Disability Living Allowance can seem daunting, but following the correct procedures and providing complete information can increase the chances of a successful claim.
The DWP recommends that you seek help in completing the application form to ensure that all relevant details are entered correctly.
- Get the application form: You can request an application form by contacting the Disability Living Allowance helpline or by downloading it from the government website.
- Gather supporting documents: Gather any medical reports, assessments or statements from health professionals that detail your child's condition and its impact on their daily life.
- Fill in the form carefully: Fill in the application form with precise, detailed information about your child's health, the care they need and the mobility problems they face.
- Submit the application: Once the application has been completed, make copies of the form and supporting documents for your files and send the originals to the designated disability benefits centre.
You should make sure your application is complete and accurate, as the DWP will assess your child's eligibility on the basis of the details you provide.