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Original poster

Applying for DLA

12 replies

Frasersmum123 · 09/05/2009 19:50

Have decided to take the plunge and apply for DLA for DS2 (Delayed Communication and probable ASD)

Its so difficult, and I have a sneaking suspicion that they will probably say no!

OP posts:
misscutandstick · 09/05/2009 20:02

Then fight! we are here for you if you need assistance, the cerebra guide is good too.

Ive just applied for the mobility part as DS5 is almost 3y, we were awarded HRC last May. He too has severely delayed communication (hes non-verbal) and theres debate amongst his proffessionals as to wether or not its ASD.

Good luck!

madmouse · 09/05/2009 20:06

It is difficult, even with a clear cut case of cerebral palsy like for my ds. It is a depressing thing to do, as it pushes you nose first into the difference between your dc and others.

Few tips:
Have a treat lined up. I don't drink and made the mistake of applying during Lent so no chocolate! Biiig mistake. Although have now given up chocolate permanently.

Don't be afraid to repeat yourself, if you do not repeat yourself all the time you are not giving enough information.

Describe a bad day not an average day.

Don't play things down. It is all the little things you do a thousand times a day every single day that is what you need DLA for. Imagine the job description of a carer you would hire to look after your dc.

Ds's new community paed we saw yesterday (He is a treasure - so pleased!!) said he encouraged parents to apply because the DLA they were entitled to did in his experience not cover the extra costs incurred.

misscutandstick · 09/05/2009 20:17

Good tips madmouse, and i second the treat for afterwards - dont be afraid to tackle it in several attempts.

When i re-read our DLA form i wondered who on earth this child was: i certainly recognised all the million and 1 things that have to be re-done every hour to try and keep the calm, the extra mile one has to go to ensure safety... but the lovely little boy that i know and love sounded terrible, it can be quite upsetting.

Original poster
Frasersmum123 · 09/05/2009 20:50

Well I have done it and I dont think I have gone into enough detail, I am rubbish with forms like this and this is an extra daunting one. Its taken the best part of two days as it it

OP posts:
Original poster
Frasersmum123 · 09/05/2009 20:51

Never mind - there is always appeals!

OP posts:
siblingrivalry · 09/05/2009 20:55

Good luck. It took me forever to complete ours-it's a bit depressing, isn't it?

As you say,worst case scenario, you can appeal. Fingers crossed you don't need to though.

electra · 09/05/2009 20:56

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electra · 09/05/2009 20:57

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Original poster
Frasersmum123 · 09/05/2009 21:14

Oh shit - I have realised I have put my DOB down as Frasers - can I ring them and ask them to change it?

I am sure I still have baby brain

OP posts:
Graciefer · 09/05/2009 21:31

another piece of advice which is now irrelevent for you but might be helpful to others who are about to embark on the dreaded forms.
always photo copy them before you send them off for future reference i.e renewals or appeals

madmouse · 10/05/2009 00:08

you can fill and send them electronically!

misscutandstick · 10/05/2009 06:51

you can but it doesnt give nearly enough room to be explicit. and you cant give extra sheets in that way either.

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