Disability Living Allowance (DLA) 

This is available in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. If you live in Scotland, you can apply for a similar benefit called Child Disability Payment. This has replaced Disability Living Allowance in Scotland. See our UK information page to find out more about Disability Living Allowance.

Child Disability Payment

A new equivalent benefit for children has been introduced in Scotland called Child Disability Payment. If you are already receiving Disability Living Allowance, you will keep receiving your regular payments until you are moved across to Child Disability Payment by Social Security Scotland. You don't need to apply and will be notified when this happens.

Child Disability Payment provides extra money if your child (aged under 16) has a long-term physical or mental illness or disability. It doesn’t matter what their condition is – what matters is how it affects them. If they have difficulty with everyday tasks such as washing and dressing, or with getting around outside, they may be eligible. It also doesn't matter what your income or savings are as it is not means-tested.

Find out more on our Child Disability Payment information page.

What is DLA? 

If you are looking after a child with a health condition or disability who is under 16 based in England, Wales or Northern Ireland, they may be entitled to a benefit called Disability Living Allowance (DLA).  

If they are 16 and over, they might be eligible for Adult Disability Payment instead.