The Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a financial benefit offered by the UK’s Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). It is specifically designed to support children under 16 with disabilities that affect their daily living or mobility. Though DLA has been phased out for adults and replaced by the Personal Independence Payment (PIP), it remains an essential resource for families raising children with disabilities. Currently, over a million individuals benefit from DLA.
Contents
- DWP £108 Weekly Payment in 2024
- Components and Rates of DLA
- 1. Care Component
- 2. Mobility Component
- Eligibility and Qualifying Medical Conditions
- List of Qualifying Conditions
- Examples Include:
- Application Process for DLA
- 1. Who Can Apply?
- 2. How to Apply
- Payment Schedule and Methods
- Transitioning from DLA to Other Benefits
- FAQs on Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- 1. Who is eligible for DLA?
- 2. What are the DLA rates for 2024?
- 3. Can adults apply for DLA?
- 4. How long does it take to process a DLA application?
- 5. Can my child receive both care and mobility components?
DWP £108 Weekly Payment in 2024
- Eligibility: Children under 16 with disabilities requiring additional care or mobility assistance.
- Recent Updates: DLA rates have increased by 6.7% in 2024, reflecting the rising cost of living.
- Qualifying Conditions: The DWP has outlined a comprehensive list of 57 medical conditions that may qualify a child for DLA.
- Application Process: Parents or guardians can apply online or via phone.
Components and Rates of DLA
DLA consists of two main components, each targeting a specific need: Care Component and Mobility Component.
1. Care Component
This is provided for children who need help with personal care or supervision. The care component has three tiers based on the level of need:
Rate |
Weekly Payment (2024) |
Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
Lowest Rate |
£28.70 |
Part-time help needed with personal care. |
Middle Rate |
£72.66 |
Frequent help or continuous supervision during the day or night. |
Highest Rate |
£108.57 |
Care needed throughout the day and night. |
2. Mobility Component
This component helps families with the costs associated with mobility challenges.
Rate |
Weekly Payment (2024) |
Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
Lower Rate |
£28.70 |
Child can walk but needs guidance or supervision outdoors. |
Higher Rate |
£72.66 |
Child cannot or can barely walk, or needs significant outdoor assistance due to severe sensory impairments. |
Eligibility and Qualifying Medical Conditions
The DWP specifies 57 medical conditions that may make a child eligible for DLA. The focus is on how these conditions affect the child’s daily living and mobility needs.
List of Qualifying Conditions
The conditions range across physical, neurological, and psychological impairments and chronic illnesses.
Examples Include:
- Physical Disabilities: Arthritis, amputations, trauma to limbs.
- Neurological Conditions: Epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease.
- Chronic Illnesses: Diabetes, cystic fibrosis, asthma.
- Mental Health Disorders: Psychosis, severe developmental disorders, learning difficulties.
- Severe Impairments: Deaf/blindness, terminal illnesses, severe intellectual disabilities.
Refer to the DWP’s comprehensive medical guide for a complete list of qualifying conditions.
Application Process for DLA
1. Who Can Apply?
The application must be submitted by the child’s parent, guardian, or someone acting in a parental capacity.
2. How to Apply
There are two main methods for submitting a DLA application:
Online Application
- Visit the UK government’s official website to fill out the DLA claim form.
- Provide detailed information about the child’s condition and how it impacts their daily life.
Phone Application
- Contact the DLA helpline to request a printed application form or receive assistance.
| Contact Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Telephone | 0800 121 4600 |
| Textphone | 0800 121 4523 (for hearing impairments) |
| Relay UK | Dial 18001 followed by 0800 121 4600 for communication assistance. |
| British Sign Language (BSL) | Video Relay Service available Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. |
Payment Schedule and Methods
- Payment Frequency: Every four weeks, typically on a Wednesday.
- Early Payment: If a payment date falls on a bank holiday, the payment is made earlier.
- Payment Method: Funds are directly deposited into the claimant’s bank account, ensuring security and accessibility.
Transitioning from DLA to Other Benefits
As a child ages 16, the DWP initiates a transition process to adult benefits like Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or other applicable programs. This ensures that individuals continue to receive appropriate support based on their changing needs.
FAQs on Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
1. Who is eligible for DLA?
Children under 16 with disabilities requiring extra care or mobility assistance are eligible. The condition must significantly impact their daily lives.
2. What are the DLA rates for 2024?
DLA care component rates range from £28.70 to £108.57 per week, and mobility component rates are either £28.70 or £72.66 per week.
3. Can adults apply for DLA?
No, PIP has replaced DLA for individuals aged 16 and above. However, children already receiving DLA may transition to PIP upon turning 16.
4. How long does it take to process a DLA application?
Typically, applications are processed within 8 to 12 weeks, though delays may occur if additional evidence is needed.
5. Can my child receive both care and mobility components?
Yes, children who meet the criteria for both components can receive payments for both.
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