Should I apply for DLA for DS?

[UhtredRagnarson]

DS12 diagnosed ADHD, just starting down the ASD referral path so that could be years. He also has faecal incontinence that he is under a paediatrician for. He is medicated for ADHD but still has to be supervised at all times. He takes melatonin to sleep at night but still wakes regularly, sleep walking with no idea what he’s doing. In school he has a full time 1:1 classroom assistant. However he isn’t coping in school, had a huge meltdown in school and is now refusing school altogether. He hasn’t been in 2 weeks. I’ve now had to stop work as obviously I can’t leave him at home and there is no one to have him, I’m a single parent and his dad is long term absent. I can’t claim any carers allowance unless he gets higher or middle rate DLA. Would he be entitled? I’m really panicking about how we will cope without my wage. I get universal credit but it’s barely covering everything.

Cerebra do a guide for applying for dla. I would definitely look into it

Thank you @tentosix

From what you’ve written, you should definately apply.

Absolutely yes.

Thank you both.

I second using the Cerebra guide to help you complete the form.

In addition to applying for DLA, does DS have an EHCP? If he doesn't, apply for an EHCNA. If he does, think about asking for an early review or reassessment of needs.

Also, the LA have a duty to provide education to those unable to attend school, including because of their SEN and mental health. Ask the LA for medical needs tuition.

Similar situation and I eventually claimed and received high rate care and low mobility. Wish I'd done it sooner. Definitely use the Cerebra guide and send plenty of documentation.

If you haven't already you can apply for a Family Fund grant, too.

In addition to applying for DLA, does DS have an EHCP? If he doesn't, apply for an EHCNA. If he does, think about asking for an early review or reassessment of needs.

He does have an EHCP the school have just applied for a reassessment based on his recent meltdown so that’s already in progress.

Also, the LA have a duty to provide education to those unable to attend school, including because of their SEN and mental health. Ask the LA for medical needs tuition.

Thank you, I didn’t know this was a thing so will request that. Is this done via school or directly with the education authority?

@10brokengreenbottles

If you haven't already you can apply for a Family Fund grant, too.

Thank you.

Make sure the LA reply to the reassessment request within 15 days. If the LA refuse, appeal.

Usually, LAs like schools to refer, but if the school don't/refuse the LA can not use that as an excuse to not provide education or the other provision in Section F of the EHCP. If the LA refuse or delay, as they often do, threaten Judicial Review.

If you google your LA EOTAS medical needs tuition you can usually find the team responsible for providing education to those out of school in your LA.

Thank you so much. That’s really helpful.

@UhtredRagnarson yes most definitely, be very detailed and send in as much evidence with your application (I sent copies of ds ehcp / letter from school senco / all medical letters I’d received stating how much support he required)

Your ds qualifies for sure with what you said in your first post.

Also if you’re already on uc you get additional disability premiums once he is awarded dla / you will also be able to claim carers allowance - although they do reduce that off your uc pound for pound / then you will get carers element of uc.

Use cerebra guide to help fill out form, if you need any help send me a PM.

Thank you @danni0509

Definitely apply for DLA. I know it feels odd doing it but we were awarded it for DS as he needs watching all the time and so much supervision when we go out, so definitely worth doing. I think it opens more doors to support as well as the money, e.g., my employer only counts a child as disabled if they receive DLA and now I have more flexibility with booking leave etc.

Thank you @MagratGarlikInDisguise. I have been self employed for years as it’s the only way I can be available for DS when the school calls and for all his appointments without feeling permanent anxious that I’m going to be sacked. But it’s worth baring in mind should that change.

I agree with the others, Cerebra guide and as much evidence as possible. I kept putting it off thinking he'd never get it but he did, without me having to appeal.

Agree with the others. Cerebra guide is invaluable. The DLA form is horrible and takes ages to complete. Don't try to do it all in one go because it will just upset you, but make sure you stress on every single question how much different he is from every other 12 yo, ie you wouldn't expect to have to supervise a 12 yo, 12 yos don't generally disturb you at night.. Really spell it out how much you have to do.

Good luck.

I reckon you'd get something - issues with toiletting and sleep usually qualifies.