New 2025 DLA Rates Announced – Check Out If You’re Eligible for Up to £187.30 Weekly

New 2025 DLA Rates Announced – Starting June 7, 2025, families in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland can receive up to £187.30 per week through Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for children under 16. This increase in support offers much-needed relief for households raising children with medical or developmental conditions that demand extra attention or supervision.

Whether you’re a parent, guardian, educator, or support worker, this updated guide walks you through the new DLA rates, eligibility rules, and how to apply, along with helpful tips and real-world insights.

What’s New in 2025?

The DWP has raised both the Care and Mobility components of DLA for children, offering small but meaningful increases that can go toward daily expenses like transportation, specialized childcare, or therapeutic aids.

 New Weekly Rates (Effective June 7, 2025)

Component Rate Tier 2024 Rate 2025 Rate Increase
Care Highest £108.55 £110.40 +£1.85
Middle £72.65 £73.90 +£1.25
Lowest £28.70 £29.20 +£0.50
Mobility Higher £75.75 £77.05 +£1.30
Lower £28.70 £29.20 +£0.50

If a child qualifies for the highest care and higher mobility rates, the maximum weekly support is £187.30.

Who Can Apply for DLA in 2025?

DLA is specifically for children under 16 who face ongoing difficulties with daily care or mobility. Adults must apply for Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and Scottish residents should apply for the Child Disability Payment instead.

🎯 Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for DLA:

  • The child must be under age 16

  • They must require significantly more care or supervision than other children of the same age

  • The condition must have lasted at least 3 months, and be expected to last at least another 6 months

  • The child must live in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland and meet residency rules

Also Read – £8,500 State Pension Back Payments for Women in Their 60s and 70s – Are You Among the Eligible Beneficiaries?

Understanding the Two Main DLA Components

Care Component – For children who need extra help with personal tasks like dressing, eating, or staying safe

Tier Weekly Amount Example
Highest £110.40 Needs full-time care day and night, or supervision due to risk
Middle £73.90 Requires help during either day or night, but not both
Lowest £29.20 Needs at least one hour of care daily

Mobility Component – For children who struggle to move around or need guidance when outdoors

Tier Weekly Amount Example
Higher £77.05 Cannot walk or needs continuous outdoor supervision
Lower £29.20 Needs assistance walking safely outside or encouragement to move

How to Apply for DLA for a Child

Applying for DLA requires careful documentation and honest detail. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

  1. Get the Application Form (DLA1A Child)

    • Download it from gov.uk or order by phone at 0800 121 4600

  2. Gather Evidence

    • Useful documents include:

      • Medical or therapy reports

      • School assessments or Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs)

      • Statements from teachers or carers

  3. Fill in the Form

    • Be specific and thorough. Describe what the child needs help with, including weekends and nights.

  4. Mail the Application
    Send your completed form and documents to:

    css
    Disability Living Allowance Unit
    Mail Handling Site A
    Wolverhampton
    WV98 2AA
  5. Wait for a Decision

    • You’ll typically hear back in 6–8 weeks, though further evidence may be requested.

Real Family Experience

Nadia, a single mother in Belfast, applied for DLA for her 10-year-old daughter, Ella, who has severe ADHD and sensory regulation issues. Nadia included reports from school, a child psychologist, and a behavior therapist. Ella was awarded middle care and higher mobility, which now adds up to £150.95 per week—a financial lifeline that supports private therapy and transport to her special school.

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

  • Use detailed examples: Instead of “She gets anxious,” say “She refuses to leave the house without a familiar adult due to severe anxiety.”

  • Include weekend and bedtime routines: Highlight support needs that happen outside school hours.

  • Use third-party input: Ask school staff or healthcare workers to write letters about how the child differs from peers.

  • Describe the emotional toll: Explain how the condition affects the child’s mood, focus, or family life

Also Read – £427 Monthly DWP Unpaid Carer Payment – Eligibility Requirements and Full Payment Schedule

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ❌ Being too vague or general

  • ❌ Leaving out weekend or night needs

  • ❌ Forgetting to update address or contact info

  • ❌ Rushing the form—take your time

Guidance for Teachers, Social Workers, and Health Professionals

Professionals can play a crucial role by:

  • Helping parents fill in forms

  • Providing supporting letters

  • Explaining how the child’s needs differ from others

  • Referencing official assessments or EHCPs

Even a brief note from a trusted adult can make a big difference.

FAQs – Disability Living Allowance for Children (2025)

Q: What’s the maximum amount you can receive per week?
A: £187.30 per week, if eligible for both the highest care and mobility rates.

Q: Can teenagers apply for DLA?
A: Only children under 16 can apply for DLA. After 16, they must apply for PIP instead.

Q: How do I apply for DLA?
A: Fill out the DLA1A Child Form and post it to the DLA unit in Wolverhampton.

Q: Is there a deadline to apply in 2025?
A: No fixed deadline, but it’s best to apply as soon as you notice consistent care or mobility needs.

Q: Can professionals help me apply?
A: Yes! Teachers, healthcare staff, and social workers can assist with documentation and letters.

Q: Can I apply online?
A: No, as of 2025, DLA for children must be applied for by post only.

Also Read – Single Retirees Face the Biggest Impact – £325k Pension Gap Triggers Outrage and Urgent Warnings

Final Thoughts

Navigating the world of disability benefits can feel overwhelming, but support is available. The 2025 DLA updates offer a welcome lift to families juggling care responsibilities, school, work, and therapy.

Whether you’re just starting the process or reapplying for a child whose needs have changed, knowledge is power. Stay informed, gather good evidence, and don’t hesitate to seek help from professionals or disability support charities.

📍Helpful Resources:

Remember, you’re not alone—and every bit of support matters.

Priyanka Singh

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