DLA supporting statement - is it essential?

[Childhealthquestion]

Hi. We’re putting our first DLA claim in for our 6 year old who has Cerebral Palsy, epilepsy and food allergies and lots that goes with that (mobility issues, extra care needs etc etc). Everything is well documented in various physio/OT reports, epilepsy care plans, school plans etc. and I’ve spent ages (and ages!) on the form. Given he’s under the care of so many different professionals, there’s no single person who has sight of all his issues to write the supporting statement. I could ask the school SENCO (who is lovey!), but she’s super busy and it wouldn’t add anything over what’s already documented in his school plan. So is the supporting statement essential, or can I leave it blank given my claims are well supported by the many (14!) associated reports? Thanks in advance!

A supporting statement isn’t essential, especially as it sounds like you have lots of other evidence. If you do decide to ask the SENCO don’t delay sending the application, you can send further evidence on at a later point.

Thank you! Very reassuring.

My son was awarded favourably without