The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) offers financial assistance to those with disabilities or medical conditions to help alleviate the increasing cost of living.
One such benefit is the Disability Living Allowance (DLA), which provides monthly payments of around £108 for children under 16 who have certain health conditions.
This guide covers the DWP’s £108/month payment, eligibility, and how to claim.
DWP £108/Month Payment Overview
The Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is designed to support individuals with disabilities, offering financial help to manage the extra costs related to their condition.
While the DLA is now only available for children under 16 (with Personal Independence Payment (PIP) replacing it for adults), it still supports families dealing with significant medical challenges.
The DWP has outlined a list of 57 medical conditions that could qualify a child for DLA payments. This list includes physical and mental health issues, such as arthritis, visual and hearing disorders, epilepsy, and other chronic conditions.
The amount paid varies based on how the disability or condition affects the individual’s life.
Eligibility for the £108/Month Payment
To qualify for the DLA, a child must be under 16 and living in the UK. Eligibility is based on how much care and supervision the child needs due to their condition, as well as any mobility challenges they may face.
Key Conditions Eligible for DLA:
- Arthritis
- Spondylosis
- Back pain
- Diseases of the muscles, bones, or joints
- Hearing and visual disorders
- Heart disease
- Respiratory diseases
- Cerebrovascular diseases
These conditions, among others, are recognized by the DWP for DLA support. The child’s disability must impact their ability to perform daily tasks, move around, or require additional supervision compared to others of the same age.
Full News on the £108/Month DWP Payment
In response to rising living costs, the DLA rates have been increased by 6.7% to help families manage financial pressures. This increase ensures that households can continue to meet the care needs of their children without additional hardship.
The £108/month figure refers to the maximum Care Component for individuals who need 24-hour supervision.
The DWP has simplified the eligibility criteria, making it easier for families to understand whether their child qualifies.
There is no automatic qualification based on diagnosis alone. Instead, the focus is on how the condition affects the child’s daily life and their need for care and supervision.
Two Components of DLA:
- Care Component: For children needing personal care assistance.
- Lowest rate: £28.70 per week for part-time assistance.
- Highest rate: £108.57 per week for 24-hour care needs.
- Mobility Component: For children with significant walking or mobility challenges.
- Lowest rate: £28.70 per week for those who can walk but need guidance outdoors.
- Highest rate: £72.66 per week for those unable to walk or who need constant supervision due to sensory disabilities.
How to Apply for the DWP £108/Month Payment
Steps to Apply:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure the child’s condition aligns with the DWP’s criteria and affects their care or mobility needs.
- Complete the Application: Forms are available on the UK Government’s website or by contacting the DLA helpline at 0800 121 4600. You may also apply by texting 0800 121 4523 if you require assistance.
- Provide Documentation: Include relevant medical records that detail the child’s condition and how it impacts their daily life.
- Submit the Application: Once completed, submit it through the official portal or by mail. Families will be informed of the approval decision, usually within a few weeks.
Application Assistance:
If you are unsure about how to fill out the form or need help, you can contact the DLA helpline for guidance. They can also provide information on the next steps after submitting your claim.
Additional Details
It’s important to remember that while these rates apply for 2024, future changes may occur to align with inflation or changes in government policy. Additionally, while DLA is only available for children under 16, adults with disabilities may be eligible for the Personal Independence Payment (PIP), which follows similar guidelines.
Key Points:
- The DLA payment is meant to assist with daily living and mobility needs caused by a disability or chronic condition.
- DLA includes a care component for those needing assistance with personal care and a mobility component for individuals facing difficulties with movement or walking.
- The maximum payment is based on the severity of the child’s condition and the level of care or supervision required.
The DWP’s £108/month payment offers crucial financial assistance to families with children facing significant medical challenges.
The recent rate increase by 6.7% reflects the government’s efforts to help families cope with the rising cost of living.
Families who meet the criteria should apply through the UK Government’s portal or contact the DLA helpline for more information on the application process.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the £108 DWP payment?
Children under 16 with a disability that requires additional care or mobility assistance may qualify.
How can I apply for DLA?
You can apply online through the UK Government portal or by contacting the DLA helpline at 0800 121 4600.
What conditions qualify for DLA?
Conditions such as arthritis, hearing/visual impairments, heart disease, and many others are eligible, depending on how they affect daily life.
How much can I receive in DLA?
Depending on the severity of the condition, families can receive up to £108.57 per week in care payments and £72.66 per week for mobility.
Are there future updates to DLA payments?
Rates may continue to adjust based on inflation, but as of now, payments are aligned with the 2024 increase.
