reduced tax credits

minx_101

I wouldnt say the condition is less severe as she will have the condition for life, and she got the severe disability premium up to the age of 7. She is now nearly eight and her circumstances are still the same but she has been now cut to the middle rate, which I think is very unfair.

minx_101

In my opinion, I think the child would need to be a lot older to fend for herself as she suffers from a rare metobolic disorder, as there is a very complicated diet with a lot of complex planning, and careful preparation where cooking is involved. Overall I feel that everyday life is somewhat very difficult even at this age.

nannytone_2

apart from the dietry needs, what other additional help does your child require?

minx_101

She requires a lot of supervision, especially as she also has supplements to drink 4 times a day. Eating out, birthday parties etc are very difficult, and it is very hard when trying to explain to others as her diet is very restriced.

SuziQ

Minx, the rate wouldn't have dropped purely due to age-my son is 9 and his DLA has recently been renewed at HRC, LRM. It is due to whatever you put on the forms for care needs, which must have demonstrated a drop in needs or maybe the new assessor looked at it more critically than the previous one. You can appeal if it's a recent award however the rate could go down. Could you get some benefits advice,maybe at your local citizens rights bureau, or do you have any nurse or therapist supporting you who can sort all this out for you? I know myself, what a nightmare it can be to re-juggle an already tight budget when the amount drops.

DorsetGirl_2

How old is your daughter? Does she have any other difficulties?

SuziQ

What is all this patronising 'my love' business?

I will reiterate-there is nothing to say that the rate HAS to drop at a certain age-it is not purely the age change-it is whether CARE NEEDS have changed. My son might be expected to do more for himself at age 9 than 6 when his last award started, but unfortunately he can't-so the rate stayed the same.That is what I was expressing to the OP. Not all children become more independent as they get older- that is one of the features of being special needs.

minx_101

Yes she also requires care at night, and has a lot of difficulty drinking these supplements which taste disgusting. If she doesnt drink them her health will suffer enormously. It is a very hard for her.

minx_101

Thanks for the advice. I already appealed but still was awarded the middle rate care.

DorsetGirl_2

Do you feel confident enough to take it to a tribunal?