Benefits & Financial Support for SEND Families
Use this hub to check current eligibility for DLA, Carer's Allowance, grants and debt support. Benefits depend on individual circumstances; facts and rates on this page were checked against GOV.UK on 26 July 2026.
Disability Living Allowance
DLA is a tax-free, non-means-tested benefit for children under 16 who meet the extra looking-after and/or mobility tests. For 2026–27, care rates are £30.30, £76.70 or £114.60 a week and mobility rates are £30.30 or £80.00 — a mathematical maximum of £194.60 where both highest rates are awarded. Check GOV.UK.
DLA for Autistic Children
Rates, eligibility, and a step-by-step application walkthrough with example phrases for the hardest sections.
Read guide →5 Illustrative DLA Claim Examples
Fictional examples showing how to describe frequency, duration and extra care needs. They are not real claims or predicted awards.
See examples →Free DLA Criteria Reflection Tool
Reflect on care and mobility needs before checking the official criteria. The tool is not a DWP assessment and cannot predict an award.
Use the tool →DLA & PIP Descriptor Decoder
Understand exactly what the DWP is looking for. Plain-English breakdown of every care and mobility descriptor with scoring guidance.
Read guide →DLA to PIP at 16
What happens when your child turns 16 and DLA ends. How to prepare for the PIP transition so support continues without a gap.
Read guide →Carer's Allowance
In England and Wales, Carer's Allowance is £86.45 a week in 2026–27. You must meet all eligibility rules, including 35 hours of care, a qualifying benefit (middle or highest-rate DLA care for a child), study rules and earnings of £204 or less a week after permitted deductions. Universal Credit is reduced by the amount of Carer's Allowance; a separate UC carer element may be available whether or not you claim Carer's Allowance. Check GOV.UK.
Grants & Funding
Beyond DLA and Carer's Allowance, there are grants and funds specifically for SEND families — for equipment, respite, activities, and home adaptations. Many do not require a formal diagnosis.
Managing Money
Caring for a disabled child can put real pressure on family finances. These guides cover the practical side — dealing with debt, protecting your mental health, and knowing where to turn when money is tight.
Related Rights
Benefits and EHCPs use different legal tests. The same factual reports may be relevant to both, but a DLA award does not determine EHCP entitlement and an EHCP does not automatically create a new benefit award.