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[WhyCantIuseTheNameIWant]

The original thread (last couple of days) had the OP in a lot of bother about the tax credit cuts.

One of the comments was about DLA.

My dd is undergoing physio and assessment for a couple of things, but it could be another 2 years before she gets a proper diagnosis.

Even though she ticks every flaming box for the suspected problem.

One poster mentioned "you don't have to have a diagnosis to apply for (get?) DLA."

Is this true? Where would I find out more?

I had this with DS1. Had investigations from age2 , I applied for DLA when he was 10. Got the DLA, got definite diagnosis a year later. HTH

Yes it's true, ds didn't have any diagnosis before we started getting it.

Cerebra have a very good guide on their website.

Yes it's true. You can receive PIP ( which has replaced DLA) whilst under investigation/ diagnosis as long as the condition has affected you for more than 3 months and will continue for at least another 3 months

Pip is only for over 16s

Yes, true. My DS aged 2.10 still doesn't have a diagnosis, but has been receiving for around a year.

The application is based on how much more help /support they need compared to a 'normal' child their age.

It's about how your child differs from a child the same age without difficulties and how it affects them day to day and at night.

My DC1 had a dx for a life-threatening condition aged two, but because all children aged two need constant supervision etc she didn't get DLA until she was in her early teens.

But she won't qualify for PIP when she turns sixteen because the criteria has changed.

DC2 qualified for DLA aged two because he was significantly impaired compared to other children his age.

Thanks.

She is being investigated for dyspraxia.

She is 2 1/2. She can't do steps without holding on to something (including kerbs)
She can't play on a hard surface unsupervised (falls and lands on her head. A lot. ) grass is usually ok.

She can't run (she tries...)

She can't use cutlery very well. Does ok(ish) with fingers and a fork.

But I can't really remember what is 'normal' from the last time I had a toddler.

Her poor walking was picked up in march.
She just toddles faster now...

My washing machine seems to be constantly on, as she is always spilling food, drink, anything !

She also has a twisted hip/leg. Hopefully physio will ease this for her.

Do I just fill in the DLA form from the job centre? Or do I need her filing cabinet full of medical notes?

My son was going through assessment for ASD. As soon as I had the first home visit from the SNHV I was advised to apply for DLA. The diagnosis didn't come until about a year later. Please don't wait, apply straight away as it can take ages although they will make back payments of around 3 months if I recall.

And thank you all for replying.
I will sleep a little happier tonight, knowing some help may be available for her.

And good luck for all of you, looking after dcs who need extra care too.

Yes, just fill in the firm and send as many medical notes as possible. Dazzle then with science. And be prepared to be harsh (honest) about her on the form.

In my area there is a place you can go to get help filling out forms, and applying for DLA and carers allowance, they did wonders with my grandmother, perhaps have a quick google and see if anything similar exsists in your area?

Thanks hami and korma

Is there a name for the 'form-helpers'?