Niki
The UK’s Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is now offering up to £16,157 in free financial support to parents of children diagnosed with autism or ADHD.
This considerable package of benefits can ease the burden of daily care, educational challenges, and added costs that often accompany neurodevelopmental conditions.
This article explains each benefit in detail, including eligibility and how to apply.
What Is the £16,157 DWP Support Package?
Families caring for children with autism or ADHD are eligible for six major forms of assistance, including Disability Living Allowance, Carer’s Allowance, and more. These payments aim to address both the child’s needs and the responsibilities faced by their carers.
Who Is Eligible?
Parents or guardians of children under 16 who:
- Have ADHD or autism, confirmed by a medical professional.
- Require additional supervision, support with communication, or special care.
- Live in the UK and meet the income or care-related thresholds.
Breakdown of Benefits Available
Here’s a clear overview of the benefits and how they add up to £16,157:
| Benefit | Amount (Annual) | Eligibility Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Disability Living Allowance (DLA) | Up to £9,700 | For children needing extra help with care or mobility. |
| Carer’s Allowance | Up to £4,331 | For those providing 35+ hours of care per week. |
| Tax-Free Childcare | Up to £2,000 | Working parents not receiving Universal Credit, with disabled children under 17. |
| Disabled Persons Railcard | ~£126 savings | One-third off rail fares for a parent traveling with the child. |
| Family Fund Grants | Varies | Based on family income and the child’s condition; can include tech, clothing, travel, etc. |
Details on Each Benefit
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) – Up to £9,700
This is the core support provided to children with significant care or mobility needs. It includes:
- Care Component: For help with washing, dressing, meals, and communication.
- Mobility Component: For children needing help with movement or transportation.
DLA is not means-tested, and you don’t need to be receiving care services to be eligible.
Carer’s Allowance – £4,331
If you care for your child for 35+ hours weekly, you can receive £83.30 per week. You do not need to live with the child or be related to them, and you can still claim if working part-time (income limits apply).
Tax-Free Childcare – £2,000 per child
Working parents can receive £2,000 annually (or £4,000 for disabled children) to cover childcare expenses. Both parents must earn at least £2,539 every three months, unless newly self-employed.
Disabled Persons Railcard – £126 Savings
Parents can save a third on most UK rail fares when traveling with their eligible child. Though the card costs £14.50 annually, the average savings exceed £126 per year for frequent travelers.
Family Fund Grants – Variable
Families can receive one-off grants for essential items like technology, sensory toys, or household appliances. These grants are based on:
- Household income
- Level of care needed
- Child’s diagnosis
Application is quick via their online portal.
Why This Matters
In the UK, ADHD affects 3.62% of boys and 0.85% of girls aged 5–15, while autism spectrum disorders are also widely recognized. These conditions can significantly impact communication, social interaction, and daily routines.
The support from DWP helps families access resources, travel, and care that would otherwise be unaffordable.
How to Apply
You can apply for each benefit through the following channels:
- DLA: gov.uk/disability-living-allowance-children
- Carer’s Allowance: gov.uk/carers-allowance
- Tax-Free Childcare: childcarechoices.gov.uk
- Railcard: disabledpersons-railcard.co.uk
- Family Fund: familyfund.org.uk
With up to £16,157 in free support, the DWP offers a much-needed financial lifeline for parents of children with autism and ADHD. From monthly allowances to grants and travel discounts, these benefits make a real difference in the daily lives of families.
If you’re eligible, now is the time to apply and take full advantage of what’s available.
FAQs
Can I claim all six benefits together?
Yes, as long as you meet the individual eligibility criteria for each, you can claim all applicable support.
Do I need a formal diagnosis of autism or ADHD?
Yes, medical confirmation is typically required, especially for DLA and Family Fund applications.
What happens if I already get Universal Credit?
You may need to choose between certain benefits, such as Tax-Free Childcare and Universal Credit childcare elements. A benefit calculator can help.