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Children, Financial Benefits

Children, Financial Benefits

Last checked: June 2026

England and Wales have the same benefits as outlined in the tabs below.

Scotland – most benefits are as in the tabs below. However, there are some important differences:

See: Contact – guide to benefits in Scotland >

Northern Ireland – most benefits are as in the tabs below, but there are some differences.

See: NIDirect >

This is the main benefit for children who have SMA. DLA helps to meet the extra costs that you might have because of your child’s disability. It’s paid regardless of whether you are working or not. It’s not means-tested so it doesn’t matter what level of income or savings you have. Your child will also have to meet certain rules linked to their immigration status and the length of time they have lived in the UK.

DLA is made up of two components:

  • Care component 

If your child needs a lot of extra watching over or help with personal care, they should qualify for the care component of DLA. It can be paid from age 3 months. If a child is terminally ill, it’s paid from birth. It’s paid at one of three different rates –lowest, middle and highest – depending on how much extra care your child needs.

  • Mobility component

There are two levels:

The lower rate mobility component is for children who need extra guidance or supervision out of doors. It can be paid from the age of five. 

The higher rate mobility component is for those with severe walking difficulties. It can be paid from the age of three.

Contact for Families with Disabled Children:

Contact’s 3 short films talk you through how to apply. Even if you’re still waiting for a diagnosis you may be eligible to claim.

Follow the link and watch now >

MDUK:

This is the main benefit for carers. You may qualify for this benefit if you provide your child with  at least 35 hours of care per week. They must receive the care component of Disability Living Allowance at the middle or highest rate.

Read more >

This scheme provides assistance with travel costs for hospital visits for people on low incomes. It only covers travel for treatment, not to visit patients. You can find out more for:

If you are travelling to access an assessment or for a drug treatment, you may be able to obtain additional assistance. Ask your clinical team.

SMA UK may be able to assist with a FlexiGrant1

You may be entitled to other benefits. For example, to help with your income while you are seeking employment or if you have any childcare and housing costs. It’s very complicated to work out what you and your partner or unpaid carer is entitled to. It’s well worth seeking specialist advice. You may want to start by looking at one of these links:

 

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