A senior adviser on major reforms to the UK benefits system has called for Disability Living Allowance (DLA) to be withdrawn from children with three specific medical conditions.
The Policy Exchange report, co-authored by Jean-André Prager, targets behavioural disorders, hyperkinetic syndrome (primarily ADHD), and learning difficulties including autism and Down's syndrome.
Costs and claimant numbers
Child DLA currently costs UK taxpayers £5.3 billion annually, representing 231% of pre-pandemic levels. The number of children receiving DLA has nearly tripled from 314,000 in 2010 to 915,000 in 2026.
Since the pandemic, 404,000 additional claimants have been linked to mental health conditions.
Proposed savings and criticism
The report proposes tightening eligibility criteria to generate savings of £11.9 billion over four years. Two-thirds of savings would reduce the deficit, whilst one-third would fund enhanced mental health services.
Mr Prager sits on the Timms review steering group examining PIP reform. Sir Stephen Timms has said recently that PIP is 'not fit for purpose'.
The website Benefits and Work describes the proposals as 'concerning'. Critics have raised concerns about the potential impact on vulnerable children and families across Wales and England. DLA rates range from £30.30 to £194.60 per week depending on support needs.
