DLA for under 2 with suspected ASD

[Ellie977]

Hello.

My 22 month old is on a waiting list to be assessed for ASD. In my area it can take up to three years to be assessed. He is also on a waiting list for SaLT (although he has been assessed by them, we are just waiting for a space to open up for him).

We are wanting to apply for DLA for him. My partner is a SAHD and we can't afford to send our son to nursery at the moment but think it might help his development of he does. We are hoping we would be able to get the 15 hours free funding for 2 year olds if he gets DLA.

Now I have been putting off filling the form in because, well it's awful. Also, I don't know what a 'typical' 22 month old is like so have no idea how much extra care I am giving my little guy compared to a typically developing toddler. I do know that if he walks anywhere it takes about 4 times as long to get anywhere because he has to pick up rocks and touch anything that is a circle shape and run his had against a brick wall or he has a huge meltdown that can last for hours. But is that really different to other toddlers? I do feel like we are always working harder to avoid him getting upset than I see other parents. Maybe we are to soft?

Anyway, the reason I am writing this is to ask for your experiences. Has anyone applied for DLA before their child with potential ASD turned 2? If so was it accepted?

If you are unsuccessful at convincing them you give extra care can you reapply when they are older?

Has anyone been successful in applying without a supporting statement from a professional? Our son hasn't spent any significant amount of time with any professionals yet so wouldn't know who to ask. Just the HV and the SaLT for an assessment. They are in agreement with us that he is showing signs of ASD but have only spent about 1.5 hours with him between the two of them.

If the claim is denied you can reapply when older. DS is too young to be awarded the mobility element. You can’t get that until 3 for HRM and 5 for LRM. Have a look at the Cerebra guide.

It isn’t essential for someone to complete the more information from someone who knows the child section, but you will need evidence. The HV and SALT would both be able to confirm traits of ASD and that DS is awaiting an ASD assessment and SALT. You can also send copies of the referral information.

Thank you. I went ahead and asked my HV and she has agreed to write a supporting statement

Here is a helpful guide to filling it in.

i would also add write the answers based on a bad day.
make sure to write in the comments rather than just ticking the boxes even if it seems you are repeating yourself.
keep a copy in case it get lost in the post .

i know it can seem overwhelming but just take it one page at time.

skybadger.co.uk/2018/08/20/dla-form-a-step-by-step-guide/