DLA child claim help - never had benefits before

densol_2

I hope someone can help. I've worked 30 years always paying higher rate tax. I took redundancy earlier this year to be self employed and spend more time with my kids in their exam years. They are 18 and 15. My younger son is suffering from anxiety and depression and has suicidal thoughts. He is under a psychiatrist and counselling and receives Anti depressant meds. Ive claimed TC and WTC for the first time ever this year.

My friend mentioned my son may be eligible for DLA ? He does need extra care ( he seems to break things ) and eats a lot and sometimes I'm up all night with him watching him after he has had a melt down. This also means I'm too tired to work the next day.

I've called for a form instead of completing on line ( as he broke the lap top last night) but note its 44 pages long ( can just about read it on my iphone)

Having never claimed stuff like this I've no idea if Im even in the right ballpark. Is my sons condition one they give help to - would there be a point to making a claim as I wouldn't want him to be distressed by any physical assessment if it's a waste of time but certainly have written reports from the doctors I can send to support a claim.

JR4

I have claimed DLA for my daughter who has chronic fatigue syndrome I applied in April it was refused at first had a reconsideration and it was successful in august. It is worth applying but be prepared for the forms are long and the questions don't all apply for the condition you are applying for there is not medical but make sure you have all reports from doctors etc to copy and send it all helps.

pmlindyloo

This link may help:

http://www.cafamily.org.uk/media/744270/dla_for_children_21_march_jc_web.pdf

Indie_Kid

To claim DLA, your child must have had the needs for 3 months and expect them to last for another 6. You also have to prove that his needs are greater than a child of his own age.

He doesn't have to be getting the help, it just has to be reasonable.

densol_2

Thank you for your very helpful posts - We saw the Mental health doctor just now and she will write a short report. The teacher that sees him daily to check his well being will also be requested to write the report on the form.