Financial Support for Families of Children with SEND in Croydon

Caring for a child or young person with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND) can bring extra costs - whether it’s for equipment, travel, therapies, or time taken off work to care for them.

In Croydon, there are a number of financial support options available to help families manage everyday expenses and make sure children and young people get the help they need. 

What kind of financial help is available?

Depending on your family’s situation and your child’s needs, you may be able to get help through:

Benefits and Allowances:

  • Disability Living Allowance (DLA) - for children under 16 who need extra care or help getting around.
  • Personal Independence Payment (PIP) - for young people aged 16+ who have a long-term health condition or disability.
  • Carer’s Allowance - for someone who cares for your child for at least 35 hours a week.
  • Universal Credit - with extra support if your child has a disability.
  • Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) - for young people with SEND who cannot work.
  • Child Tax Credit/Working Tax Credit - with disability elements if you’re eligible.

Grants and Local Support:

  • Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) - helps cover the cost of changes to your home (like ramps or accessible bathrooms).
  • Croydon Welfare Assistance Scheme - emergency support for families facing hardship.
  • Children’s Continuing Care and Health Support - for families with children who have complex medical needs.
  • SEND Travel Assistance - for help getting your child to school or college.
  • Free school meals and clothing grants - depending on income or benefit status.

Personal Budgets:

If your child has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), you may be able to request a Personal Budget to give you more choice and control over how certain services are arranged and delivered.

This could help with:

  • Short breaks
  • Specialist activities
  • Support workers or personal assistants

Your EHCP caseworker or the SEND team can talk you through this option. 

Help and Advice

Understanding which benefits you can claim can feel confusing - but you’re not alone.

Help is available in Croydon from: