Discount schemes for kids with DLA

[Kodiaka]

We've finally been awarded DLA for both our autistic children (ages 13 and 14). I think that means they now qualify for free or discounted access to various places, which would be a huge help as our savings have really taken a hit in various our battles for support for the children.

Can anyone advise on which programmes are best for discounts or free entry to attractions, holiday destinations, etc? The kids are not able to do a lot at the moment but they generally like things with animals and nature. We haven't been on a holiday in years so I'd also be interested in any holiday offers.

And are there separate schemes for parents to apply to as carers?

Eligibility for discounted entry &/or a free carer/companion ticket depends on the venue. At some pleases DLA is one of the eligibility criteria, at other places, it isn’t. You are best looking where you want to go then checking their website/contacting them for what their specific rules are.

If DC are in receipt of high rate mobility, DC are eligible for a blue badge. Even if DC aren’t in receipt of HRM, you can still apply and be assessed.

If DC are in receipt of HRM, depending on where you live, there may be a taxicard scheme DC are eligible for. For an example of what I mean, have a look at the London taxicard.

You could see if DC are eligible for your local travel concessionary pass. Eligibility will depend on where you are and what DLA rates have been awarded.

There are various grants for DC with disabilities. Not all linked to DLA itself. For example, you might want to look at Family Fund and Merlin’s Magic Wand. If there is anything specific you need a grant for, post, and someone may have a suggestion.

For you as a carer, have a look at Carefree.

I’ve just got a CEA cinema card for my son. Means a carers ticket is free.

We find that many places (attractions, museums etc) we can ask for an adult to accompany our child for free (as a ‘carer’ rather than a parent. We ask for this even if they don’t publicise it on the website and often they will help.

CEA card (cinema) we use a fair bit. It isn’t free but we save the cost in one trip.

if there are National Trust places near you then you can get a child membership and ask them (head office) for a paper card that allows an adult for free. We use ours quite a lot as like yours ours likes being outside/in nature.

Our council has a scheme for disabled children (they call it a Passport). Check under Local Offer for SEN and/or disabilities. They do random things from time to time like free zoo trips. We have also had a beach hut a couple of days for free which was really good and they do have a discounted breaks scheme.

Having a blue badge can be useful too. We applied for ours from the perspective of safety and proximity being necessary rather than mobility. I have been surprised how useful it’s been to us. We don’t always use it but it’s useful to have as an option depending on what kind of day we are having. Some places for discount etc find a blue badge easier as it’s more recognidable than DLA.