Can you get DLA for SEMH needs?

[KenAdam]

My child is currently not in school. Has suffered with EBSA since March. Reduced timetable not worked. Has ran away from teachers and put herself in dangerous situations. Has had to be taken in to school. Never went in again! In the process of a paed referral.

We feel she shows all the signs of ADHD. Extremely impulsive and full of energy. Very accident prone. Trouble with sleep. My son is on the ASD pathway and it was noted he also shows ADHD traits. She is terrified of seeing someone be sick. I think she feels confined in school and this is why she wants to get out and have some sort of escape route in the fresh air.

I am wondering if she’d be eligible for some DLA and I could maybe use it to fund tutors for her as I don’t see her returning to school any time soon.

Yes, apply for DLA. Use Cerebra’s guide.

If DLA is awarded, you don’t need to use it to fund tutors. If DD is unable to attend school and is CSA, the LA has a duty to ensure she still receives a suitable full-time education. On their website, IPSEA has a model letter you can use to request provision.

You should also request an EHCNA. IPSEA has a model letter you can use for this too.

Thank you! Sorry what’s CSA? I definitely do not wish to home school, she needs a lot of stimulation and I just cannot provide that to a good enough degree.

She has only just been put on a school support plan, I am a bit nervous of applying for an ehcp without the school. Stupid I know! 🙈

CSA is compulsory school age.

You are right not to electively home educate. Parents often find it easier, although not easy, to get support if DC remain in the system and remain the LA’s responsibility.

Dont wait for the school to support an EHCNA request! You could be waiting a very long time.

Thank you!

I hope the school would back up the request for an assessment they’ve seen the trouble first hand unfortunately.

Dreading September when the fight starts again!