Divorce when you care for a disabled child

How care needs, benefits and housing shape the financial settlement and arrangements when a child has additional needs.

Updated 19 August 2026·6 min read
Written by CalmSplit Editorial TeamReviewed by Ramani GillLast reviewed 19 August 2026England & Wales

Where a child has additional needs, the settlement usually has to look further into the future than in an ordinary case, because care may continue into adulthood.

What to build into the settlement

  • Housing that is suitable and adaptable, close to the right school or services.
  • The earning capacity of the main carer, which may be permanently reduced.
  • The cost of therapies, equipment and respite care.
  • Benefits such as DLA, Carer's Allowance and how they interact with capital.
  • Whether maintenance should continue beyond the usual age limits.

This article is general information about the law of England and Wales, not legal advice. For advice on your situation, speak to a solicitor.

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Frequently asked questions

Can maintenance continue past 20? ▼

In appropriate cases the court can order provision for a child with a disability beyond the normal ages.

Does a lump sum affect benefits? ▼

It can. Take advice on structuring before agreeing the shape of the settlement.

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