Petition · Department for Work and Pensions

Review DWP guidelines for DLA Higher Rate Mobility component

Open for signatures 195 signatures

What the petition asks

Review DWP guidelines for the DLA Higher Rate Mobility component, to ensure the assessment explicitly recognises that autistic children who lack spatial and danger awareness, and risk bolting or self-harm MAY meet the criteria for "virtually unable to walk" due to severe safety risks.
Many families of autistic children face immense hurdles proving eligibility for Higher Rate Mobility. We feel DWP decisions heavily favour physical disabilities, ignoring that an autistic child in distress or experiencing sensory overload cannot process danger. Many bolt into traffic, refuse to walk, or have severe meltdowns. This can make journeys impossible without constant physical restraint. We call for a review to ensure DWP assesses "virtual inability to walk" with realism and a scientific understanding of autism.

Timeline

11 Aug 2026 Petition opened for signatures

Key facts

Signatures 195
Status Open for signatures
Department Department for Work and Pensions
Opened 11 Aug 2026

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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 12 Aug 2026.