DLA for 2y old? Any point?

[burntout9]

DD is 2y4m and is currently awaiting a paediatric appointment due to developmental concerns. The SEND HV has advised us to apply for DLA but in really not sure we would even get accepted!? I know it’s very difficult to obtain. She isn’t currently in a nursery setting (this was another suggestion from the early years forum) SEND HV said to send in her SALT info, the observation from her 2y check and a development tracker that our portage worker did.

has anyone else been successful in claiming DLA for a child so young with delays in development?

she has no words yet and has no understanding either. Shows lots of autistic traits. But to me she still doesn’t really any care needs than that of the average two year old? Surely quite a few 2.5y olds are none verbal? In cots? Don’t interact much? Puts things in their mouth? Or am I missing something?

If it has been suggested by the HV, I would do apply.

It is possible to get DLA for 2 year olds. All 2 years olds need care and supervision. Not all 2 year olds require care and supervision beyond that of a typical 2 year olds because of their additional needs.

Have a look at the Cerebra guide. Lots of people don’t realise they are doing things that count.

Thank you. I will give it a go but won’t be holding my breath!

also I’m curious, DLA is based on care needs above those of a typical child the same age.

how do they decide what is typical and what isn’t? Is there some developmental checklist they go by? Birth to 5 matters?

There aren’t hard and fast rules/checklists. It is based on what is generally considered typical (so think what healthcare professionals and nurseries etc. would think). They can seek advice from their in-house medical practitioners if they need to.

Definitely worth applying. Best of luck x