DLA being reconsidered.

hobart_2

I applied for DLA online last year. When I filled in the form I didn't really check what I wrote and I was turned down in January.My problem is paranoid schizophrenia which was confirmed to them by my GP. It seems I did not give enough information. The decision maker said my needs vary but but the help I need most of the time is: Help with getting around outdoors Guidance and supervision, but I am entitled to neither rate of mobility. I was also hoping for the care component due to problems concentrating and being motivated. My claim is being reconsidered but I told them in writing I now want to appeal. Should I ask CAB for advice?

concerned43

You should wait to get their reply from their 'reconsideration' before you appeal. Best go to CAB - phone then first to see if you can make an appointment as DLA can be time consumming and they may not have time to deal with your case if you just turn up!
You have probably made the same mistake many people do and focus on their condition rather than how it affects your day to day life. If you have a copy of your initial application then take that with you when you go for your CAB appointment.

Jojo_the_Tightfisted

Try MIND. They have welfare rights officers who could help you and they have more training in the area of your condition than the average CAB advisor.

wobblygreg

I think most claims are turned down first time mine was despite having MS which is a reconised disability I sent off nuero report and GP report to prove I had MS.
DLA isnt really about having a disability its about if you need or qualify for help although for disabled people it is only thing you can have that actualy says you are disabled(anyone can send off to ebay for a sticker or badge)DLA asks questions as you know about daily activities and the D in DLA is a bit misleading as it sort of implies if disabled your get it.

I was told by Newcastle office that I didnt qualify for low rate as I had legs and wasnt limbless and not for high rate as I wasnt blind !! totaly wrong and I involved my then MP hopefully the advisor was sacked or moved to a job where they were not dealing with vulnerable people.

kurgon

Hi - normally with paraniod schizophrenia you see more positive symptoms (hallucinations, paranoia etc) but you also seem to be having issues with negative symptoms (poor motivation etc). Do you have a consultant that can provide an additional letter to state this, as the decision maker at DLA may just be going off a standard sheet that would not state that these symptoms are usual.