please help me - DLA

patchy987

hi guys, i really need some help, i have applied for DLA back in october, i suffer with depression, anxiety and social phobia. i got rejected on the first application so my support worker helped me write a letter explaining in detail how these conditions stop me from living a normal life. Today i got another letter saying my application to have the claim looked at again has been rejected. what i would like to know is if there is anything i can do now ???

lil_me

http://www.bhas.org.uk/freeguides/DLA-appeals.pdf

DLA appeals are explained on there aswell as many other websites.

I would suggest considering asking for the support of Welfare Rights when it comes to appeals etc. You should be able to find them on your local council's website.

U've_been_framed

Is there a local disability group? Somebody there may be able to help you. Failing that, make an appointment to see someone at the Citizen's Advice Bureau.
Because the government is pushing the idea of getting people back into work, it is getting harder to get DLA. Those forms with 40 odd pages to fill in are really discouraging.
Persevere.

U've_been_framed

Can you get support from your GP?

lil_me

I don't think there has been much difference made to the process for claiming DLA to be honest, it is the Incapacity Benefit claims where large changes have been made.

Any support you can get will help, you can also ask to see all copies of evidence they have used to make their decision.

Highlighting what normal things your condition stops you doing may not be enough, remembering

Disability Living Allowance - sometimes referred to as DLA - is a tax-free benefit for children and adults who need help with personal care or have walking difficulties because they are physically or mentally disabled.

It isn't given because of how it effects you but because of how much care you need and mobility difficulties you have. Your support worker should be highlight if you need care and what care you need.

patchy987

thanks for this guys, i have the full backing of my counsellor and my support worker, i havent seen my gp much about this as its mainly the other 2. i just feel i am on a sinking ship and cant see what to do. i have read the article you directed me to and it seems very frightening, i mean i hardly even go out of the house and only then when i am with someone, the thought of having to see a panel of people look down their noses at me is alomst enough to finish me off.

upferret

Hi, I went to an appeal for my other half who was rejected twice, it wasnt that bad and he got awarded lower rate care. the people on the panel were nice and it was more of a chat type thing so dont worry too much, dont give up!

Penny-Pincher!!

I would appeal ASAP and ask for a copy of the reasons. You have 28 days (i think) to do this, so do it ASAP.

If you have consultants that will back you...thats great! I would include as much supporting evidence as you can-stating how your condition effects you, what meds you are taking etc etc.

I know it is difficult, but hang on in there.

You could always take your case worker with you to the tribunal. Sometimes though, if you can produce new evidence or more detailed info within them 28days they may be able to make a decision without you seeing them.

Good luck and let us know how you get on.

Hugs

PP
xx

lil_me

The panel at my sisters appeal were amazing, they were so lovely, good luck.

agal

patchy987 wrote: »

i havent seen my gp much about this as its mainly the other 2

Surely that's part of your problem right there as the DLA will have written to your GP for a report on your condition

diabeticguy

DLA is based on personal care that you require. So if you are not physically able to wash, cook etc then you should explain why you need assistance. If you have any physical difficulty in walking yopu shoul dfully explain what the difficulty is.

You have one month from the date of the last letter to appeal. Ask for an oral hearing whereby you are able to discuss your situation with an independant panel of three people. They usually are sympathetic and encourage you to explore your answers at length.