Caring for a child with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis can sometimes bring extra costs. There is financial support available, depending on your circumstances, so it is important to check what you may be entitled to. It is worth applying for support even if you’re unsure whether you will qualify – many families are eligible for support but don’t realise it.
Support for your child
If your child needs extra care or help because of their condition, you may be able to claim:
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA) – for children under 16.
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) – for young people aged 16 and over.
Support for parents and carers
If you regularly provide care for your child, you may be eligible for:
- Carer’s Allowance
Help with everyday living costs
Depending on your household income, you may also be able to receive:
- Universal Credit.
- Housing Benefit (or housing support through Universal Credit depending on your circumstances).
- Council Tax Reduction.
Other support
You may also be able to get:
- Help with travel costs to hospital appointments (for example, through the Healthcare Travel Costs Scheme depending on eligibility)
- Additional support or grants from your local council
Where to get help and advice
Applying for benefits can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. The following organisations can offer free, trusted advice and support:
- Citizens Advice – offers free, confidential advice on benefits and help with applications.
- Contact – provides guidance specifically for families of disabled children.
- Scope – offers information and support on disability benefits.
- Your child’s healthcare team or hospital social worker.
Before you apply – a quick checklist
It can help to gather some information before starting your application:
- Details of your child’s condition and diagnosis.
- Information about how your child’s condition affects their daily life (e.g. dressing, moving around, sleep, pain, fatigue).
- Any medications or treatments they are receiving.
- Reports or letters from healthcare professionals (if you have them).
- Notes about the extra care or support your child needs compared to other children of the same age.
Top tip!
When filling in forms, describe your child’s needs on their bad days, not just their best days. This gives a more accurate picture of the support they need.
Families living in Scotland or Wales
Support can vary slightly depending on where you live in the UK. In Scotland, some benefits are delivered through Social Security Scotland. This includes Child Disability Payment and Adult Disability Payment, which replace DLA and PIP.
In Wales, most benefits are the same as in England, but families may also be able to access additional help through the Welsh Government and schemes such as the Discretionary Assistance Fund.
If you are unsure what applies to you, it’s a good idea to seek advice from one of the organisations listed above.