Domiciliary Care Allowance is an allowance given to parents of a child with disabilities, to assist in their upbringing because of their additional needs.
The main reason why most families get Domiciliary Care Allowance (DCA) is because it can help them to obtain essential services, treatment or additional equipment for their disabled child.
The allowance also has a respite element, in acknowledgement that bringing up a child with disabilities is a demanding and often exhausting job. In such cases, the DCA may allow parents to take a much-needed break away, in order to retrench and maintain energies.
Due to Government cutbacks, the allowance has been severely curtailed in recent times. Many families have been unjustly refused, or have had an existing allowance withdrawn. As highlighted in the media today, some of these families have brought successful applications to court to have the refusal overturned and the allowance granted.
While it is to be welcomed that so many appeals are successful, having to take court action is just another hurdle for parents in this situation to overcome. What’s more, DCA affects the families of our most vulnerable children.
If you are facing difficulties with your DCA application, then don’t struggle alone – find a solicitor who can advise compassionately to help you with your case.