Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what support her Department provides to (a) the families of children who are severely disabled and (b) other families in similar circumstances in completing applications for disability living allowance.

DWP offers sign-posting to families, initially through access to Gov.UK. This provides a basic overview of DLA for children, eligibility and how to claim. The site additionally sign-posts access to Carer’s Allowance.

The claim pack is accompanied by an information booklet which provides support in completion of the questions, with examples. Both the claim pack and booklet have recently been revised to provide clearer information when completing the form. DWP offers advice and support by telephone on specific points where advice is sought.

The DLA Service Line receives a limited number of calls for support on completion of certain questions and DLA Child Case Managers may contact other parties for clarification if they feel a claim pack has missing or conflicting evidence. This may involve contact with the parent if they are the most appropriate source, but may also include a school or Health Care Professional who is familiar with the child.