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Original poster

DLA question. Why so early?

15 replies

thederkinsdame · 20/01/2011 23:24

I've just received my DS's DLA renewal, but it's not due to be reviewed till the summer. Why have they given me so much time to fill it in? Sadly, a year afetr DX I am already so cynical about govenrment and LEA etc that I automatically think the worst.

Can anyone tell me, is it usual to get the forms so far in advance?

OP posts:
keepingupwiththejoneses · 20/01/2011 23:53

Basically because it can take them 12 weeks to make the decision. My advice is get it back in with plenty of time.

Original poster
thederkinsdame · 21/01/2011 08:48

Thanks keeping, I was worried it would be that..

OP posts:
bigcar · 21/01/2011 09:53

don't worry, everyone gets them 5/6 months in advance, it also gives you the time to collate any paperwork, get in touch with therapists/drs that you may want to support your application etc.

coppertop · 21/01/2011 10:00

6 months in advance is about right.

In my case this usually means:

  • a week of looking at the form and dreading it.
  • two months of forgetting all about it because it's been stuffed in a draw.
  • a month of thinking that I really should make a start.
  • a couple of depressing weeks jotting down notes.
  • mad panic trying to fill it in Blush

Ds2's recent renewal came back within 3 weeks but I really would advise getting it sent in with lots of time to spare.

coppertop · 21/01/2011 10:01

drawer

"draw" makes it sound as though I've offered it as a raffle prize...

wendihouse22 · 21/01/2011 10:02

Yes, they need that time to get the process in order.

I just got my high rate care component back for my ten yr old autistic son. They downgraded him and I was livid.

He has more care needs now than he did 5 yrs ago!

Am overjoyed to have it reinstated! I was cross that they'd made their "no" decision on the evidence of my completed form only. Had they sought the advice of his counsellor? His child psychiatrist (has odc/Tourettes too)? Perhaps his GP? School Senco? NO. not a soul. I told them that they had not made an informed choice/decision and seriously needed to reconsider.

They did. We got it.

Everything's such a battle!!

Good luck to you.

Original poster
thederkinsdame · 21/01/2011 12:51

Thanks all. coppertop, I know what you mean, but I'm going to try to be good and fill in promptly. At least we're in a stronger position this time of having more people involved with DS.

OP posts:
Original poster
thederkinsdame · 15/02/2011 12:54

update: we've just been awarded HR and LR mobility so thank you to everyone for the fab advice!

OP posts:
wasuup3000 · 15/02/2011 14:28

LOL coppertop you sound like me :)

wasuup3000 · 15/02/2011 14:29

Well done thederkinsdame

bigcar · 15/02/2011 14:33

fantastic Smile

overthebar · 16/02/2011 12:04

I too got my notice for renewal beginning of Jan (not due for renewal until June). I did it straight away and wait for it got a letter 10 days later with award increased! (Son 4.7 ASD). This time I included a copy of his Statement and OT report which we didnt have last time so has obviously made a difference. Am delighted.

Original poster
thederkinsdame · 16/02/2011 12:59

well done, too overthebar.

Wine all round I think!

OP posts:
overthebar · 16/02/2011 13:05

forgot to add it is renewed now until he is 16 which I am shocked about!

starfishmummy · 16/02/2011 16:18

Even if it is awarded for several years in advance they may sometimes send another form for a review of the case, before the "expiry" date. You do have to fill it in (or they will stop payments) but I think it is just that cases are selected randomly for this.

(we had one!)

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