Next Step: Here is your DLA Sentence Bank
You can use this to help describe your child’s needs. These example sentences are designed to support you in explaining how your child’s condition affects their daily life and why they may need Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
The Disability Living Allowance (DLA) form is used to apply for extra money to help with the extra care or supervision your child needs because of a health condition, disability, or developmental difference.
It’s for children under 16 years old, and you don’t need a diagnosis to apply.
Here’s a simple breakdown of what the form asks:
Their name, age, and where they live
What health conditions or difficulties they have
Your name and contact details
How you care for your child
Any medication, treatment, or therapy your child is having
Any professionals involved (e.g. GP, school, paediatrician)
Help your child needs during the day (e.g. eating, dressing, calming, toileting, reminders, supervision)
How often and how long this help is needed
If your child wakes in the night, needs checking, or needs help to settle back to sleep
If your child needs help walking or staying safe outside
If they get anxious or need guidance
School support (like EHCP, SEN support, or a 1:1)
Any reports or letters you have (optional but helpful)
Describe your child’s needs in everyday life
Use real examples of what support they need and why
Focus on what’s needed – not just what you already do
Imagine someone reading this has never met your child
Be clear, honest, and don’t downplay anything
Think about what happens if you’re not there to help
Use sentence examples from your DLA Sentence Bank
Filling in the DLA form can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to do it all at once.
Take your time. Break it into small chunks. One section at a time is absolutely fine.
You are the expert on your child — your knowledge matters.
Don’t rush — it’s okay if it takes a few days or even a few weeks.
Be honest and detailed — describe what life is really like, even on a tough day.
Use examples — “Yesterday we had to…” can be more powerful than general phrases.
Rest and return — take breaks when needed. You can always come back to it.
💬 “You might not finish it in one go — and that’s completely okay.”
© 2025 STRM – SEND the Right Message Charity 1193572. This DLA support content is for use by registered STRM members only. It is for personal use and may not be copied, shared, or distributed without prior written permission.
