HC Deb 03 February 1999 vol 324 cc671-2W
Dr. Naysmith

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what factors underlie the postponement until April 2001 of the extension of the higher rate mobility component of the disability living allowance to three and four-year-old severely disabled children who have difficulties walking. [68698]

Mr. Bayley

The proposed extension will require legislation. If approved by Parliament, the new provision will come into operation at the same time as other benefit changes for disabled people are made as part of a co-ordinated package to help the most severely disabled people. These changes would help ensure that resources are better targeted at those who most need help.

Dr. Naysmith

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what financial assistance is available to severely disabled under-fives to enable them to attend playgroups and other pre-school provision. [68696]

Mr. Bayley

There is a wide range of financial assistance available which contributes towards the extra costs faced by families with severely disabled children under five. No attempt is made to specify how families should spend the benefits which includeWithin Income Support, income based Jobseeker's Allowance, Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit, groups identified as likely to have extra expenses receive help through the disability premium structure. The new Disability Income Guarantee will provide extra help in these premiums for families with disabled children getting the highest rate of the care component of Disability Living Allowance. We are also proposing to extend the higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (currently £35.85 a week) to severely disabled 3–4 year olds with a mobility problem.

In addition, some assistance may be available from the Local Authority.