If you’re raising a child with a long-term health condition or disability, the 2025 changes to Disability Living Allowance (DLA) in the UK may offer some much-needed relief. With the maximum weekly payment rising to £187.45, families can better manage extra care costs.
But claiming DLA can feel like navigating a maze — especially for the first time. So, let’s break it down clearly, step by step, with expert tips, real-life examples, and helpful advice for both families and professionals.
Overview
From April 7, 2025, the new DLA rates officially kick in. Here’s what you need to know at a glance:
| Component | Rate (2025) | Max Weekly Payment |
|---|---|---|
| Care – Highest | £110.40 | |
| Mobility – Higher | £77.05 | |
| Total Possible | £187.45 |
Children under 16 who live in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland and require extra care or supervision may qualify. Adults should apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) instead. In Scotland, the equivalent benefit is the Child Disability Payment.
Increases
Even a small increase can make a difference when covering specialist equipment, therapies, or childcare. Here’s how the 2025 rates compare to 2024:
| Component | 2024 | 2025 | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Care – Highest | £108.55 | £110.40 | +£1.85 |
| Care – Middle | £72.65 | £73.90 | +£1.25 |
| Care – Lowest | £28.70 | £29.20 | +£0.50 |
| Mobility – Higher | £75.75 | £77.05 | +£1.30 |
| Mobility – Lower | £28.70 | £29.20 | +£0.50 |
Eligibility
Wondering if your child qualifies? Here’s what’s required in 2025:
- Your child must be under 16
- They need more care or supervision than a child of the same age
- The condition must last 3 months already and be expected to continue another 6 months
- They must live in Great Britain and meet residency and immigration rules
Breakdown
The care component supports help with personal needs like feeding, dressing, bathing, or supervision.
| Rate | Weekly Payment | When It Applies |
|---|---|---|
| Highest | £110.40 | Day and night care needed |
| Middle | £73.90 | Frequent help needed either during day or night |
| Lowest | £29.20 | Some help needed daily |
Mobility
This covers children with difficulty walking or who need guidance outdoors.
| Rate | Weekly Payment | When It Applies |
|---|---|---|
| Higher | £77.05 | Can’t walk or has severe mental impairment |
| Lower | £29.20 | Needs supervision when walking outside |
Application
Ready to apply? Here’s how:
- Request the DLA1A Form
Visit gov.uk or call 0800 121 4600 to request it. - Gather Evidence
Collect diagnosis letters, therapist or school reports, and a list of care needs. - Fill Out the Form
Be specific. Don’t just say “needs help dressing” — describe the situation clearly. - Post the Form
Mail it to:
Disability Living Allowance Unit
Mail Handling Site A
Wolverhampton
WV98 2AA - Wait for the Decision
It usually takes 6–8 weeks. The DWP might contact you for more info.
Example
Meet Sarah. Her son Leo, age 9, has autism and sensory processing disorder. He can’t safely walk outside alone and needs help every morning with clothing. With reports from his school and therapist, Sarah applied and was awarded middle care and lower mobility rates — totaling £103.10 per week.
Tips
Want to boost your child’s chance of approval?
- Be detailed: Say “needs 20 minutes of assistance daily to dress” instead of “needs help”
- Avoid vagueness: Replace “sometimes needs help” with “needs supervision every evening”
- Include support: Attach letters from schools, doctors, and therapists
- Don’t rush: Take your time and proofread everything
- Update info: Double-check your address and contact details
Support
Not sure where to start? These organisations can help:
- Citizens Advice
- Scope
- Turn2us
- Contact
They offer free guidance for families, from checking eligibility to filling out forms.
Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or support worker, knowing the 2025 DLA changes can help ensure children get the financial support they need. The process might seem overwhelming, but with the right information and support, it becomes a lot more manageable.
FAQs
Who can claim DLA in 2025?
Only children under 16 in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland.
What is the highest weekly DLA payment?
Up to £187.45 per week if eligible for top rates.
How do I apply for DLA for my child?
Request and post the DLA1A Child Form from gov.uk or by phone.
How long does the DLA decision take?
Most decisions take 6 to 8 weeks after form submission.
What documents support a DLA claim?
Diagnosis letters, EHCPs, therapist or school reports.
