Benefits, grants and funding

Being a parent or carer of a child with special needs can be both amazing and sometimes challenging.

Everyone needs a little bit of extra support at some point in their lives, and there is financial support available for you and your family.

In addition to the information and advice below, Plymouth has an Early Help and SEND Advice Line. You can book a conversation with a Family Support Worker to discuss worries or questions. Just call 01752 668000, or email AccessEarlyHelp@plymouth.gov.uk.

Benefits and financial support if you're disabled or have a health condition

Links to all the Government schemes to help if you're living with a health condition or disability. Includes Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).

View page (Go to Benefits and financial support if you're disabled or have a health condition)

Disabled facilities grants

Disabled Facilities Grants (DFG) are provided by a Local Authority to help disabled people to live more independently in their own homes where equipment and minor adaptations are no longer suitable.

View page (Go to Disabled facilities grants)

Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for children

The DLA rate depends on the level of help the child needs and your child may need an assessment to out what help they need.

View page (Go to Disability Living Allowance (DLA) for children)

Benefits, grants and tax credits

When someone with special educational needs and/or a disability turns 16, 17, 18, or 19 they become entitled to their own benefits and support.

View section (Go to Benefits, grants and tax credits)

Personal budgets

Personal budgets are designed to help families have more control over their lives. A personal budget is made up of resources that can be used flexibly to support a child or young person with their education, health and/or care needs.

View page (Go to Personal budgets)

Blue Badge scheme for disabled parking

A Blue Badge allows people with severe mobility problems caused by visible and non-visible disabilities to access goods and services, by allowing them to park closer to where they need to go.

View page (Go to Blue Badge scheme for disabled parking)