DLA statement from a person that knows the child

[neverputasockinatoaster]

Who do I choose?
DS has only been at his current school for half a term and is doing well so far - he gets lots of support and help - so they haven't seen his 'worst' and don't know him very well.
His last teacher knew him very well but he's not seen him since July.
We have no input from any services.
I did wonder about his karate teacher as she has seen the full works, knows us well and is lovely..
Any thoughts?
The form is making me weep.

[OneInEight]

I left this bit blank last time as it said it was optional although school later said they would be happy to do it for me. I am doing two renewals this week - sobs. I thought it would be easier but is not working out that way.

[neverputasockinatoaster]

It has taken us an age to do it.
I've been putting it off because, in my heart, I can't face the fact that he needs it.
BUT we have to apply as it opens a door to DH being able to get five days parental leave a year. His last job gave the days to him on production of hid DX letter but his new job want to see proof of DLA.
Also it will help us replace the stuff he breaks and will allow him to do swimming lessons he's desperate to have but he needs one to one lessons to keep him focused!
I just hate being so negative about him!

[OneInEight]

Yep, seeing your child's difficulties written down in black and white is really hard. ds2's anxiety has got worse since we did the original application and that is hard to see too as I have perhaps been deluding myself that he is improving. Actually, he probably is better than he was six months ago but still worse than he was two years ago if that makes sense.

[Chopstheduck]

Poor you, it is a nightmare.


TBH, I've never filled that bit in. They will contact the school if they need more info in any case. The karate teachers sounds good though. I've found though, other people find it difficult to be negative too, and tend to gloss over things! Which is lovely, and understandable, but not very helpful when it comes to gaining support!


Maybe ask her for a report, and then decide before including it?

[OddFodd]

It's taken me about 6 months to fill in the form. I couldn't understand why people said it took them so long but it's emotionally pummelling isn't it? So hard :(

I haven't filled that bit in either but I included a couple of things from school in the supporting documentation so it just seemed it wouldn't add much. Could you ask his last teacher to write something? I didn't include anything from his current school because they barely know him and interventions have only just started there.

[neverputasockinatoaster]

DH and I are doing it together which is good because he can switch off the emotional response.
I'll say oh no, he's fine at walking safely by a road and dh will say really? What about when he does x, y or z.
I think DH sees it as doing this to help whereas I see t as a bit of a betrayal!
Will ask karate teacher tonight when I go to my class and ring old school later. Karate teacher has a daughter with ASD so is very understanding.

[itiswhatitiswhatitis]

I left it blank too. TBH I sent every last report from every health professional or school professional we had (cost me a fortune in photocopying and postage!) that I didn't see the need to. Plus there really wasn't anyone I felt comfortable asking.

[Holfin]

I left it blank too as not many people know about DD's diagnosis so there was no-one I felt comfortable enough to ask. Not sure if I did the right thing though as still waiting for a decision.

[Chopstheduck]

I've always sent in copies of all the reports too. Plus the physio/OT exercise sheets, sensory diet info, etc - so they can see exactly where we do have to put in extra house with him because of his sn.


I think your husband has the right approach, sadly. You really do have to put across yours/his worst days ever, in order to get anywhere.

[OddFodd]

Yes, that's my understanding too. Certainly it's what Cerebra advises.

[StarlightMcKenzie]

I left it blank on the basis that they had their choice of people from the many reports. Didn't go against us.

[bjkmummy]

ive left it blank as well - im still waiting to hear - I know others have left it blank and it was awarded.

[pannetone]

Another one who left that section blank for both DS and DD's applications - and they have both been awarded DLA. I just felt it wasn't possible for anyone not living in the fanily to comment on their care needs at home and going out. School staff couldn't have written anything remotely helpful - mine 'masked' at school (ASD and anxiety) and we got the fall out at home. (Past tense because DD now much happier in a specialist school and DS is home educated.)

[frazzledbutcalm]

I left mine blank and received middle rate care. I think they get in touch with who they need to and sort if themselves. Our award is still a mystery to us as everyone (official) says dd is fine! ... so we have no idea how they gave us the award. Dd is NOT fine btw

[neverputasockinatoaster]

Went into current school this afternoon.... to discover ds has no IEP or IBP because they think their strategies are working....
My face must have told a story because the senco then said if I felt an IBP would help my case she'd see how she could help.
I shall leave it blank.
Thank you all for your advice.