The UK benefits system is undergoing changes in 2025, and for parents of disabled children, staying informed is crucial to ensure you receive the right support. Here’s what you need to know about Universal Credit (UC), Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Carer’s Allowance, and other key updates from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
1. Changes to Universal Credit for Parents of Disabled Children
If you receive Universal Credit (UC) and claim additional support for a disabled child, you should be aware of the following:
✅ Child Disability Additions – The additional support for parents of disabled children remains, but eligibility assessments are becoming stricter in 2025. More claimants may be asked to provide updated medical evidence.
✅ Mandatory Work Requirements – Some parents may be asked to engage with work coaches more frequently, even if they are caring for a disabled child. However, exemptions still apply if your child receives the highest rate of DLA (Care Component) or is deemed to have ‘severe limitations’.
✅ Transitional Protection & Migration from Legacy Benefits – Many families are still being moved from legacy benefits (such as Income Support or Tax Credits) to Universal Credit. Some may see changes in their payments, so it’s essential to check how your Disability Elements are being transferred.
2. Carer’s Allowance & New Earnings Thresholds
📌 The earnings threshold for Carer’s Allowance has been raised slightly, meaning some parents working part-time may now qualify where they didn’t before.
📌 However, there is no increase in Carer’s Allowance itself, despite inflation concerns.
3. Disability Benefit Reassessments – What Parents Need to Watch Out For
🏥 If your child receives DLA (Disability Living Allowance) or PIP (Personal Independence Payment) once they turn 16, you may notice:
- More frequent reassessments, even for conditions that will not improve over time.
- A focus on functional impact rather than diagnosis alone.
💡 Tip: If your child is due for reassessment, ensure you keep all medical letters and reports up to date to avoid disruptions in payments.
4. Changes to School Transport Funding
🚍 Many councils are struggling to fund SEND transport, with reports showing some areas are reducing services. Parents may be asked to contribute more financially or justify their child’s transport needs in more detail.
How AskEllie Can Help
With so many changes happening, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. AskEllie is here to help parents navigate these updates.
✅ Explain benefit changes in simple terms.
✅ Guide you on appeals if your child’s support is reduced.
✅ Assist with drafting letters for DWP, local authorities, and benefit reviews.
✅ Help you understand your legal rights when dealing with cuts to school transport or part-time education timetables.
💬 Try Ellie for free today! She’s available 24/7 to answer your questions on Universal Credit, EHCPs, and SEND law.
📲 Visit: www.AskEllie.co.uk
📩 Try our new Beta Telegram chatbot for instant support: https://t.me/AskEllieBot
If these changes affect you, share your experience below. Let’s make sure every family gets the support they’re entitled to! 👇💙
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