Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a benefit available to families in England, Northern Ireland, and Wales, with a deaf or disabled child under 16.

We know that many deaf people and families of deaf children do not consider deafness to be a disability. However, they may still be eligible for disability benefits such as Disability Living Allowance (DLA) in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. This is not means tested and it may allow a family to receive additional benefits/support.

 We have information about DLA including whether your child is eligible, how to apply, and what to do if you disagree with a decision.
 
 DLA is based on a child’s care and supervision needs. To claim, you need to show that the child’s needs are significantly greater than a child of the same age without a disability or illness. This care and supervision needs may take place during the day, at night, or both.

 It is important to include supporting evidence to strengthen a DLA claim. 

Here are some examples:

 

  • medical reports such as hearing test results, audiograms, discharge letters from hospitals
  • current symptoms, their severity, and the effect they have 
  • a daily diary of the additional care and attention your child requires because of their deafness.
  • care or treatment plans, and therapies or adaptations
  • social care assessments
     

You can also ask professionals to provide supporting evidence for your child, such as:

  • Teacher
  • Social worker
     

We have a step-by-step guide to help you fill in the DLA claim form for your deaf child under 16 years old, with information about how to claim DLA for a young baby or toddler (0-3 years old).
 

You can request a paper copy of the DLA application form or download it online. Please be aware that the method you choose will affect the date DLA payments will start so I would recommend reading our how to apply section. 

I hope this information is useful. If you have further questions or would like support with the process of applying, please let us know.