Understanding what financial support is available can help disabled people, families and carers make informed decisions about managing money, accessing support and planning for the future.
This guide answers common questions about disability benefits, grants, funding schemes and financial support available in the UK.
What financial support is available for disabled people?
There are different types of financial support available depending on your circumstances, including:
- Disability benefits.
- Benefits for people with health conditions.
- Support with extra disability-related costs.
- Grants for equipment and adaptations.
- Travel support.
- Employment support.
- Support for carers.
The support available depends on factors such as your age, disability, income, work situation and individual needs.
What is Personal Independence Payment (PIP)?
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) is a benefit that helps with some of the extra costs of living with a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability.
PIP is based on how your condition affects your daily living and mobility, rather than your specific diagnosis.
Who can claim PIP?
You may be able to claim PIP if you:
- Have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability.
- Have difficulties with daily living or mobility.
- Meet the eligibility requirements.
A person does not automatically qualify because they have a particular condition. The assessment focuses on how your condition affects your everyday life.
What is Disability Living Allowance (DLA)?
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a benefit that helps with the extra costs of disability.
For most adults, DLA has been replaced by PIP. However, DLA may still apply in certain situations, including for some children under 16.
What is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance is a benefit for people over State Pension age who need help with personal care because of a disability or health condition.
It is intended to help with extra costs caused by needing support.
What is Universal Credit?
Universal Credit is a benefit that helps with living costs for people who are on a low income or not working.
Some disabled people may receive additional support through Universal Credit depending on their circumstances.
What is Access to Work funding?
Access to Work provides practical support and funding to help disabled people and people with health conditions start work, stay in work or become self-employed.
Support may include:
- Specialist equipment.
- Travel support.
- Communication support.
- Workplace assistance.
What is the Disabled Facilities Grant?
The Disabled Facilities Grant helps eligible disabled people make changes to their home to improve accessibility and independence.
Examples of adaptations may include:
- Improving access to a home.
- Making bathroom facilities easier to use.
- Installing equipment to support independence.
Applications are usually made through the local council.
What is a Blue Badge?
The Blue Badge scheme allows eligible disabled people to park closer to their destination.
It is designed for people who have difficulty walking or have other significant mobility needs.
Eligibility rules depend on individual circumstances.
Can disabled people get help with energy costs?
Some disabled people may qualify for support with energy costs depending on their circumstances.
Support may include:
- Benefits-related schemes.
- Energy advice.
- Help with managing energy use.
- Local support schemes.
Are there grants available for disabled people?
Some organisations provide grants to support disabled people with costs such as:
- Equipment.
- Mobility support.
- Technology.
- Education.
- Independence projects.
Grant availability varies depending on the organisation and eligibility criteria.
What support is available for disabled students?
Disabled students may be able to access financial support such as:
- Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA).
- Support through education providers.
- Travel assistance.
- Specialist equipment funding.
Can carers get financial support?
Carers may be eligible for financial support such as:
- Carer’s Allowance.
- Support through local councils.
- Carer grants and services.
Eligibility depends on individual circumstances.
How can disabled people manage money more easily?
Helpful strategies may include:
- Checking which benefits and support you may be entitled to.
- Using budgeting tools.
- Planning for regular costs.
- Seeking specialist financial advice.
- Using accessible banking tools.
Where can disabled people get benefits advice?
Support and advice may be available from:
- GOV.UK.
- Citizens Advice.
- Local welfare support services.
- Disability organisations.
- Benefits advisers.
Key Points
- Financial support depends on your individual circumstances.
- Having a disability does not automatically mean you qualify for a specific benefit.
- Many different types of support exist, from benefits to grants and workplace funding.
- Official guidance should always be checked before applying.