DLA mobility for 3 year old.

hello007007

Hi,

My daughter has a epilepsy type of condition - not fully diagnosed yet.

She has a number of moments each day where she loses senses- she cannot process anything visual or auditory. She stands still and can't move. After a few seconds like this she is then completely fine.

She is 2 and is on dla middle rate. She is about the turn 3.

Should I apply mobility for her or does her age mean she is too young. I feel she needs extra care when out and about as she can blank out at anytime. If she was in danger she couldn't move or process the danger.

During her blank outs, she has hurt herself in the park, playground, stopped in the middle of the road, silently stopped while we are walking and almost got left behind. She trips often too.

Alice_Holt

Children under 3 are not eligible for the Mobility component.

Between 3 - 5 it may be possible to claim only the higher rate.

After 5 it becomes possible to claim the lower rate.

Criteria for DLA higher mobility rate:
The higher rate mobility component can be paid to a child from the age of three years. It is for children who are unable, or virtually unable to walk, or where the exertion required to walk would constitute a danger to their life or would be likely to lead to a serious deterioration in their health. Children can also qualify if they have a severe visual impairment, are both deaf and blind, or are severely mentally impaired.

For the lower rate:
The lower rate mobility component can be paid to a child from the age of five years. It is for children who can walk but who need extra guidance or supervision on unfamiliar routes outdoors.

From what you write I would think the lower rate might apply, (once you child reaches the age of 5).
You would need to show that your child needs substantially more guidance and supervision than a child of the same age without a disability or health condition.

Carers UK have a DLA fact sheet you may find useful:
https://www.carersuk.org/images//Factsheets/2021-22_factsheets/Disability_Living_Allowance_April_2021-22.pdf