What Benefits Are Available in the UK After an Autism or ADHD Diagnosis?
At Atypically, we help parents across the UK access timely ADHD and autism assessments. But many families ask the same question once they receive a diagnosis: what benefits and financial support are available for children or adults with autism or ADHD?
This guide is designed to provide a clear, detailed overview of the key benefits you may be entitled to following an autism or ADHD diagnosis, how to apply, and what to expect from the process.
An official diagnosis of autism or ADHD can change a young person's life, not only because it provides clarity and access to support in education and healthcare, but also because it can open the door to a number of different possibilities in terms of financial assistance. Benefits exist to help offset the additional costs that families often face, from therapies and travel expenses to specialised childcare or reduced working hours for parents. The benefit system really is there to help.
In the UK, eligibility for benefits depends not only on diagnosis but also on how a condition affects daily life. This means that having a diagnosis of autism or ADHD is not always enough by itself—you must show how the condition impacts independence, self-care, communication, or ability to work. This can be a long arduous process of filling in forms, but the help that you can receive should be worth than the stress of the process.
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is the main benefit for children under 16 with additional needs, including autism and ADHD. It is tax-free and not means-tested, meaning your income does not affect eligibility.
DLA is awarded based on how much extra care and support your child needs compared to a child of the same age without a disability. For example, a child with autism may need extra supervision, help with communication, or support with daily routines. Similarly, a child with ADHD may require constant prompting, risk management, or assistance with concentration.
DLA is split into two parts:
- Care Component (lowest, middle, or highest rate depending on the level of support required).
- Mobility Component (lower or higher rate, depending on your child’s ability to walk safely and manage journeys).
Parents can apply online via the GOV.UK Disability Living Allowance page. Decisions typically take several weeks, and evidence from schools, doctors, or therapists strengthens the application.
Once a young person turns 16, they can no longer claim DLA and may instead be eligible for Personal Independence Payment (PIP). PIP is for individuals aged 16 to State Pension age who have a health condition or disability that affects daily living or mobility.
Like DLA, PIP is tax-free and not means-tested. It is assessed against two main areas:
- Daily Living Component, which looks at how much support someone needs with tasks like cooking, washing, communicating, or managing money.
- Mobility Component, which considers the ability to plan and follow journeys, as well as physical walking ability.
Applications are made by calling the PIP claim line and then completing a detailed form. Assessments may involve a face-to-face or telephone consultation. Guidance is available on the GOV.UK PIP page.
For adults with autism or ADHD who struggle to work full-time, Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) may be available. ESA is designed for people whose ability to work is limited by illness or disability. Depending on circumstances, applicants may receive New Style ESA (linked to National Insurance contributions) or income-related ESA (means-tested). This is something to be aware of as you child gets older and towards the end of their time in school.
Applicants are usually required to undergo a Work Capability Assessment, which determines what work-related activity, if any, they are able to do. More information is available on the GOV.UK ESA page.
Families receiving Universal Credit (UC) may be entitled to additional disability-related elements if their child has autism or ADHD, or if an adult in the household is unable to work due to their condition. UC is means-tested, so entitlement depends on income and savings.
If your child receives DLA, or if a young person/adult in your family receives PIP, you may be able to add the disabled child element or limited capability for work element to your UC claim. Applications are managed through your online UC account or by contacting your Jobcentre Plus.
Parents or carers who spend more than 35 hours per week caring for a child or adult with autism or ADHD may be eligible for Carer’s Allowance. To qualify, the person being cared for must receive DLA (middle or higher rate care), PIP (daily living component), or Attendance Allowance.
Carer’s Allowance is means-tested, so your income and any earnings may affect eligibility. Claims can be made online via the GOV.UK Carer’s Allowance page.
In Scotland, the system is slightly different. DLA and PIP are being replaced with Child Disability Payment and Adult Disability Payment, managed by Social Security Scotland. The principles remain the same—support is awarded based on how much extra care or mobility support is needed. Applications are available through the Social Security Scotland website.
Some children and adults with autism or ADHD may qualify for a Blue Badge, allowing parking in disabled bays and closer to amenities. Eligibility is assessed by local councils and is often based on mobility difficulties or significant behavioural challenges that make walking unsafe. Applications can be made through your local authority or the GOV.UK Blue Badge page.
While not a financial benefit, it’s important to note that an ADHD or autism diagnosis can lead to additional educational support. In England, parents can apply for an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) if their child’s needs cannot be met with standard SEN support. EHCPs can secure additional funding and resources for schools to better support children. Information is available through your local authority’s SEND services.
When applying for benefits, the most important thing to remember is that eligibility is based on how a condition impacts daily life, not simply the diagnosis itself. Providing evidence is crucial. This might include medical reports, school letters, or written statements from therapists. Keeping a diary of day-to-day challenges can also help illustrate the level of need. Many families find it useful to seek advice from charities such as Contact or Citizens Advice when completing applications.
It is not uncommon for benefit applications to be refused at first. Parents should be aware that they have the right to request a mandatory reconsideration and, if necessary, appeal the decision. Many successful claims are won at the appeal stage once further evidence is presented.
Navigating the UK benefits system can feel overwhelming, especially after receiving an autism or ADHD diagnosis. But knowing what support is available—and how to apply—can make a huge difference for families. From DLA and PIP to Carer’s Allowance and Access to Work, there are multiple sources of help depending on your child’s or your own needs. At Atypically, we’re here to help parents not only access assessments but also understand what comes next, ensuring that every family has the knowledge and tools they need to thrive.
For more help, please check out or useful links page.
Written by Ben Friedman, Founder of Atypically.
Ben has years of first hand experience as a father of an autistic son and a SEND advocate. All content is thoroughly researched to help parents to be as informed as possible when navigating private assessments and meaningful interventions for their neurodiverse children. Ben also holds a CPD Accredited Certification in the Treatment and Management of Additional Needs Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders.
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