Carers Benefit etc and others available?

[crace]

Hi everyone, I have posted before about the statementing process and I am SO pleased to say that my sons primary school have really stepped up for us, and it's gone out for appraisal, we should hear soon if they feel it's worth going further. Meanwhile, we have also seen the consultant paed. who was wonderful and has given us our official "diagnosis" that we needed (had previously done ridiculous tests/assessments in the States) for my autistic almost 12 year old. Also referrals to every relevant agency have gone out.

So good stuff is happening.

Now that I finally have things moving, what benefits is he (we) entitled to? Respite/carers benefits etc etc. Worth going for?

DLA and if you get that andare earning less than £90? per week then you could get carers allowance as long as you are not on incapacity benefit.
your child would need a social worker to access respite or direct payments

Oh, thanks - I thought it wasn't means tested, darn. On maternity allowance at moment so that would be a no!

Not sure I want to go SW route?

DLA is not means tested, just carers its worth checking out , I know I can't get
Carers cos I get incapacity .
I don't quite know who they think does care for the kids.

Thanks OJ - how right you are. I have changed my whole life to be here at home for him (was a c/m before baby) and that brought in nothing compared to previous job. Not that I mind it of course! I don't have time to work, between school meetings and assessments/therapy.

Will check out DLA but I am sure like most things it will be difficult

Thanks for your help

DLA is difficult my three all get it as did my husband, so i was caring for four but not etitled to carers allowence