Do I apply for DLA and how?

[Iateallthechocolate]

My child has recently been diagnosed with cerebral palsy. We have to do quite a bit of physio at home. Plus she has developmental delay and difficult to understand speech. She can walk but has no balance and falls often. May needs splints not sure yet. She's like a child about a year younger. She's supposed to start school in 2024 but I'm so conflicted.

I know I should apply for DLA, but haven't yet. I just want her to stay pre school for another year or so. What should I do? Do I apply for DLA? Does the health visitor need to know? Can I delay school, if so how?

I would apply now. If you post on the SN Children Section you might get some advice on the best way to apply from some of the experienced MNers in that board

Absolutely apply for DLA.
But first down load the Cerebra guide on how to do so.
https://cerebra.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/DLA-guide-2023.pdf

There is a knack to applying successfully and this helps you to show how to detail your child's needs using the key words.

Re school.. depends. She may thrive and catch up, or she may need extra support. But you are likely to need an EHCP so get that ball rolling now.. you can apply yourself (Nursery can also apply but frankly it's easier to get the ball rolling if you are in charge) An EHCP details the support needed and ideally what steps the school will have to make to provide it eg 1:1 help etc.

The HV... up to you... never found them useful myself, but I do have 26 years experience of getting my son's needs met.

My experience (of a delayed child with cognitive and physical needs ... he also wore splints) is YOU are going to have to fight for the right support, so buckle up and get your head in the game now... it will be make life better in the long run.
Take the initiative. Apply for DLA (inc mobility allowance) Apply for a blue badge (can wait for DLA .. if she gets high rate it's automatic) and you absolutely need to be talking to her prospective school NOW about what she may need, help wise... think of everything. Access? Toiletting? Is she in a pushchair/SN buggy? Doess she need speech therapy, Occupational therapy,

Get ready for the rollercoaster ride!

(It's not all bad, but you have to be proactive so start now!)

(My son didn't speak til 5, and wore splints til recently... but now has a full time job despite his disabilities so the fight was worth it :) )