Claiming DLA when you are autistic, I have some doubts/worries

Muttleythefrog

dekaspace wrote: »

Oops yeah I forgot its called ESA now, just my social worker still calls it DLA so it slipped my mnd.

Unless my social worker is wanting me to claim Income Support as well I dont know.

Yeah, just to clarify... ESA is the replacement for Incapacity benefit... it's a benefit for those out of work and 'unable to work'. DLA is for those with care/mobility problems and can be awarded regardless of working status.

You could apply for ESA (instead of JSA) and would initially need 'sicknotes' from your doctor until you are assessed after about 3 months for the main phase of ESA.

You could also apply for DLA.

In both cases obviously whether you'd get the benefit is ultimately dependent upon whether you are able to convince the DWP that you meet the relevant criteria and supportive (in terms of evidence) medical professionals or similar can be invaluable in doing this.

Almost certainly there are people with autism getting ESA and DLA due to the disabling effects of autism... but obviously the effects can vary massively from person to person.