Types of benefits
You may be able to get benefits from the Department for Work and Pensions to help with daily living costs if you have a child or young person with additional needs.
This could apply if you:
- are on a low income,
- have an illness or disability,
- are unemployed,
- are a carer.
Main benefits
You or your child may be able to get:
- Universal Credit
- Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for children
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) for young people aged 16+
- Carer’s Allowance
- Attendance Allowance
Check what you can get
It can be hard to know what you are entitled to. A benefits calculator can give you a quick idea.
Get advice and support
You do not have to work this out on your own. These organisations give free, trusted advice:
- Citizens Advice – Help with benefits, forms and appeals
- Contact (for families with disabled children) – Clear guides about DLA, PIP and other support
- Scope – Advice on disability benefits and financial support
- Family Fund – Grants for families raising a disabled child
These services can explain your options and help you apply.
Citizens Advice South Somerset ran a session in February 2022’s Local Offer Live to help families with SEND understand the benefits system and where to find reliable information.