Financial Support


“I would like some easy-to-follow, practical information on how to manage ADHD.
I’m going back to school soon. What can be done to make it easier for me?”

ADHD patients and their parents/carers may qualify for the following benefits:
(Please note: benefits and information correct as of January 2011 and may be subject to change based on Government policy. Shire endeavour to revise the information provided in accordance to any changes.)

Claiming financial support
Concerned about the extra costs involved in living or caring for a child with ADHD? Assistance may be available from the Government to meet these extra costs.
What benefits are available?
Disability Living Allowance (DLA)

This tax-free allowance for your child comes in two parts:
  • ‘Care’ is for children who need more care than a child of the same age. (For children with ADHD, it is the mental age not the physical age that matters; it is assumed that children with ADHD are emotionally three years behind normal children. So a 10 year old with ADHD is regarded as a seven year old and so are their needs)
  • ‘Mobility’ is usually for physically disabled children, but severe learning or behavioural difficulties may count.
Carer's Allowance (CA)

Carer's Allowance is a taxable benefit to help people who look after someone who is disabled. You do not have to be related to, or live with, the person that you care for. For further information about benefit eligibility visit http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTaxAndBenefits/BenefitsTaxCreditsAndOtherSupport/inde x.htm

Income Support (IS)

This is extra money to help people on a low income. It’s for people who don't have to sign on as unemployed. Whether you qualify or not and how much you get will depend on your circumstances.

Please note a diagnosis of ADHD does not guarantee qualification for Disability Living Allowance, Carer's Allowance or Income Support. The information is provided as a guide only.
How do I claim?
First, you need expert, impartial advice to help guide you through the claim process. Please find below links to sources for further information about how to claim benefits and financial support. Please note a diagnosis of ADHD does not guarantee qualification for Disability Living Allowance, Carer's Allowance or Income Support. The information is provided as a guide only.

Parent Partnership Services (PPS)

Information, advice and support to parents and carers of children and young people with special educational needs (SEN). Find out more here http://www.parentpartnership.org.uk/

Citizens Advice Bureau

Free, independent and confidential advice on legal, money and other problems. Find your local bureau here. http://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/

The Disability Benefits Helpline

Advice on Disability Living Allowance. Find out more here http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Dl1/Directories/DG_10011169

DIAL UK 10
The Disability Information Advice Line run by and for disabled people. Find out more here http://www.dialuk.info/