Glue ear - 2 year 15 hour funding?

[Bulbnotbolb]

Hi everyone

My son is 2. He has severe glue ear, has a hearing aid and will soon have grommets. He is very all over the place and behind with his speech.

He goes to nursery who have been amazing, they have inclusion funding for him and advised me to apply for DLA (helped me with application etc). They have mentioned a few times that he should be eligible for the 15 hour funding for 2 year olds. His key worker (assistant manager) said she is 100% sure he would be eligible for the free 15 hours due to the glue ear etc (regardless of whether his DLA application is accepted or not). I feel like I've asked them too many questions over time about it and I'm just confused!

When I look at the application online, he doesn't appear to fit the criteria. He doesn't get DLA (yet) and doesn't have an EHCP.

So I'm asking if anyone has experience of getting the 15 hour funding in a similar situation?

And, has anyone been granted DLA for glue ear? I have a feeling it's unlikely he will get it.

Thank you

DLA is possible for glue ear. DLA is based on needs, not diagnosis.

To be eligible for 2 year old funding under the criteria for disabilities requires either an EHCP or DLA. However, your LA may have discretionary funded places available. (To clarify there are other criteria DC may qualify under other than related to have a disability/SEN.)

As well as applying for DLA, request an EHCNA.

My son had glue ear. When is he getting his grommets? They have made the world of difference and I can’t think at 2 he will need DLA etc as they will change his life within 2 weeks of having them and he’s young enough to catch up.

I managed to secure 2 year funding when awaiting my DLA outcome. I just provided local authority with proof of glue ear etc and they approved it. I was then eventually granted DLA for glue ear, it’s good to get a teacher of the deaf involved as they can help with the ECHP/DLA application.