Disability Living Allowance for Autism ?

[Toppy]

Hi - can anyone tell me whether DLA it is available for a child with autism, on what basis and how one applies ? PolarEyes mentioned it in one of my older posts which I have just gone back to mine for useful info
Many thanks

Hi Toppy, we get middle rate for our son who has suspected aspergers. It's not based on diagnosis, just on how much additional care they need.

Have a look at the National Autistic Society website - they have information on DLA there. As for applying, google dla directgov site - they give the eligibility criteria and a form to download or a phone number to ring to be sent a paper copy.

as said already its not to do with diagnosis but the "extra care" you have to do for your child conpared to child of same age.

So things like waking in night, not potty trained, sensory issues, running off or refusing to walk a certain way, strict routines, food issues, language understanding and danger to themself and others to name a few

HTH

We just got DLA middle rate care for our DD ASD. We used the cerebra guide, download free from the site, and sent every report/medical document and statements from family in.

Ring to get the form posted out as you then get six weeks to fill it in but payments are backdated to the phone call date. Not so if you down load.

Feel free to ask more when you get the forms...it took me two weeks and a few bottles of wine to complete...can be emotional and hard work but worth it for DD. If you get middle rate care and earn under £100 per week you can apply for carers allowance and also get the disability element of tax credits.

HTH