AQW 35897/22-27

Mr Andrew McMurray
Alliance Party
South Down

Tabled Date: 19/11/2025
Answered On Date: 07/01/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any guidance issued to decision makers when assessing functional limitations in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Answer:

My Department uses the Department for Work and Pensions’ Child Medical Guidance which provides guidance on the most common medical conditions relevant to Disability Living Allowance claims for children. This resource includes extensive guidance in relation to autism spectrum disorder and is available to read using the link below:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/medical-guidance-for-dla-decision-makers-child-cases-staff-guide. Disability Living Allowance decision makers use the guidance when determining eligibility to ensure that the potential impact of autism spectrum disorder on an individual is recognised. In addition, further information is available from the Department’s Health Professionals to supplement guidance where this is required.