Higher rate mobility for a child with autism and ADHD?

[rebkat82]

Does anyone receive Higher rate mobility for a child with Asd? I’m currently waiting for tribunal but worry that I’m wasting my time? I’ve had people saying he should definitely get it but I’m unsure of autism and adhd meet the criteria. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Some with ASD and ADHD are eligible for HRM. Some aren’t. It is about how DC present and their individual needs rather than just having those diagnoses.

For DC with ASD, there are two ways of qualifying for HRM - SMI and VUW.
You can see the SMI and VUW criteria flowcharts in this document. To be eligible you need to evidence every part of test is met. Also look at Contact’s website and leaflet.

I have 3 dc with asd and one on the waiting list. 1 gets nothing, 1 gets MRC LRM, 1 gets HRC LRM and 1 gets high rate for both (he is on pip though). It really varies. The one who gets HRM gets maximum points for planning and following a journey and 0 points for moving around. So he has no problems walking but needs to be supervised. This is easier to get when they are older I think because they can argue that all younger children need supervision but when you have an 18 year old who trips over his own feet and then can't speak then he needs a lot more help than most adults.

The criteria for PIP are different. Someone can be eligible for HRM DLA and not be eligible for the enhanced mobility component of PIP. Similarly, some who weren’t eligible for HRM DLA can be eligible for enhanced mobility component of PIP.

The other replies above are reallygood, so the only thing I'd add for the tribunal itself is on evidence, since that's usually what swings it rather than the diagnosis. If you're going down the severe-mental-impairment route, double check he's already on the highest rate of the care component, because that's the gateway and tribunals will look for it first.
What tends to land well is a plain day-by-day diary in his words and yours, the bolting near roads, the meltdowns that stop a journey, the constant supervision he needs. Concrete incidents beat any letter. Cerebra and Contact both do free tribunal-prep guides worth a read before the day. Do you have a recent EHCP or OT report you can lean on as well?

Thank you so much for the replies. All really helpful.

I had the hearing yesterday and it went in my favour. The DWP representative actually agreed as did the panel. It was a huge shock but I am so happy and relieved that the 2 years of fighting is over. Thank you for the advice.