Mumsnet Talk

Hi all,

I have a friend who has found out that she needs to have a colostomy bag fitted for at least 6 months and possibly longer and I wondered if she can claim DLA. I know that to qualify, the condition needs to have existed for 3 months and be expected to last for at least a further 6 months. Although the bag has not been in place for 3 months yet the condition that has caused this situation has certainly lasted for more than 3 months but not sure if this meets the criteria...

Also, she has been forced to stop breastfeeding because of this and wondered whether she might be entitled to formula milk on the NHS.

Finally just wondered if anyone had any advice on how else I might be able to support her. I feel so awful for her and really want to do anything I can to help.

Thanks in advance!

Hello, I am no expert but I believe you must satisfy the criteria for either the care or mobility rate. I believe for care you would need to show you require a certain amount of assistance ie, to prepare meals, or to help with personal care for example. I have no knowledge about the free formula milk I am afraid. you can apply online via direct.gov website however which gives some useful pointers. HTH

Hi, thanks for that. I looked on the website earlier and unfortunately I don't think she will qualify. Think I might try CAB and see if there's anything she can get to help...