Housing Benefits bedroom entitlement with disabled child

catgotmytongue

Hi

I am a single parent with 3 children, 2 boys age 14 and 10 and a girl age 8. I currently receive the 3 bedroom rate but have to rent a 4 bedroom house as my 10 year olds disability means he can't share a bedroom. Should I be claiming at the 4 bedroom rate?

Many Thanks

Housing_Benefit_Officer

Does your son receive DLA care at all?

What is the nature and scope of his disability and how does it affect your other sons sleep?

Does he require overnight care?

Do you have any medical evidence to back up your request for an additional bedroom?

catgotmytongue

Yes he receives the higher rate of care and lower rate of mobility and I receive Carer's Allowance. This is due in part by me having to be up and down to him all night. I can back this up with Doctor/Pead/Psychiatric reports if necessary.

pmlindyloo

Are you in privately rented accommodation or social/council housing?

Have a read of a similar thread:

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/4727727=

catgotmytongue

Private. Thank you I will go and look

pmlindyloo

Have been looking at various council websites about an extra bedroom for a disabled child in privately rented accommodation and they all seem to have different processes for applying for this.

You could have a look at your local council website to see if there is any information about applying (some websites have nothing!) before you call them and ask about it.

catgotmytongue

Thanks I will

fluffymovie

There is a legal precedent (Burnip, Gorry and Tengrove) which says that we need to give consideration to a severely disabled child's need for a bedroom of their own.

Sadly, the Govt are not going to be laying legislation for this until the Autumn and so it's down to each council to meet the additional funding through DHP really. You should certainly make enquiries though

catgotmytongue

Thanks, I will get in touch tomorrow

catgotmytongue

I have been told by my local benefits office that if I can supply a letter from my Doctor confirming my son is unable to share a bedroom with his brother because of night time disruption then I will be entitled to the 4 bedroom rate. My GP is happy to do this.

Thanks for the advice everyone