DLA seems too high

[Eminybob]

DS is 9 and was diagnosed last year with autism. He's high functioning but we do obviously have out challenges with him, not to the extent of needing and EHCP to give some context.

Applied for DLA, filled in all the forms completely honestly, send a copy of his report and diagnosis and a behavioural plan the school have set up.

Waited an age, wasn't really expecting much money as his needs aren't as great as a lot of other autistic children.

Had the letter through and he's been awarded £101 per week. This seems crazy high, but I have nothing to compare to, so can someone please tell me if this seems right?

It's probably what he's entitled to. When was your scan date if you don't mind me asking ?

What scan?

The date they received your forms

If you have completed the form honestly, don’t worry. £101.35 pw is mid rate care and low rate mobility. Presumably DS requires frequent help or constant supervision during the day or supervision at night and needs help or supervision when outside?

We sent the forms in feb

Thanks. I know it's not relevant to your post but I was asking because I have sent mine in March for change of circumstances so was curious. X

A bit, but doesn't any 9 year old?
He does self harm when distressed so I suppose he needs more supervision in certain circumstances. He probably needs more support in getting dressed and washed than other 9 year olds.
He can get very distressed very easily while out and about

No most 9 year olds are quite independent by this age . I have a Nd child who is 4 and he's very much different to his NT brother who is 9 and very much independent and capable of looking after himself and his brother sometimes too. Trust me , your son deserves the money that's why they have given you.

Of course 9 year olds needs some care and supervision, but DLA is for those who need more care and supervision in comparison to a typical peer the same age. Typical 9 year olds don’t self harm, don’t become distressed very easily and most are either independent at washing and dressing or only require prompting or limited support. Most don’t have behaviour plans at school either.

Thank you.
I think another thing is that I can't leave him alone with his brother otherwise or there is a risk he could hurt him. I probably put that on the form so that could be a factor.

See. That is a factor too . How old is his brother? Is he NT ? X

He's 5 and yes NT. Although he has been tested as also as had some developmental delays but had just received a non-diagnosis.

This is reassuring thank you. I was worried they'd gotten it wrong. We have received the backpay and it's a nice little windfall, I thought they might ask for it back!