DLA

loz63
loz63 Member Posts: 2
edited 12. Oct 2012, 15:51 in Living with Arthritis archive
Hi everyone, i was diagnosed 5 months ago with OA in my knees after years of problems and pain. My condition excellerated quite quickly in the year building up to my diagnosis. I live in a 3rd floor flat with no lift option and struggle on a daily basis. It has been mentioned to me that i should apply for DLA. Regardless how i feel about things i do find myself needing help with numerous things. Would anyone know how i would stand on this matter.......Thanks

Comments

  • SteveBurns
    SteveBurns Member Posts: 177
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    In my opinion you should have a go for it, get the application form from the DLA call centre and they will date the claim starting right away.

    You may need help with the forms, CAB can do that but they are busy. You can do it yourself but be careful what you say, you do need to answer the questions honestly but only answer the questions, if you know what I mean.

    The main issue is walking - with severe discomfort. You sound as if you are unable to walk without that severe discomfort so your answer to "how far can you walk" needs to be "Nil meters".

    You should get through OK and if you provide medical evidence of your condition that will help.

    Ask your GP for help and see what they say. If positive go for it but if negative don't ask them for any letters.

    Do you have a consultant who diagnosed RA? If so you can get copies of your medical records either from the GP, they have copies of reports from consultant and should be free or from the hospital but you have to pay. I got some of mine today - 35p per copy.

    Good luck, the way things are these days you may need it.
  • barbara12
    barbara12 Member Posts: 21,281
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Hi
    Steve has given you some good advice, just one thing always keep a copy of everything you write down for future reference, and good luck with it xx
    Love
    Barbara
  • helpatpol
    helpatpol Member Posts: 22
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    You should complete the forms based on your worst day and the support you need at that time. It would be worth contacting your welfare rights Department within your local council who will help you to complete the forms. They do this everyday and are therefore have a good knowledge of what is required on the forms. Good luck.
  • SteveBurns
    SteveBurns Member Posts: 177
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    The problem with "worst day" is when you are observed by the DWP on your "best day".

    It really does happen, I can vouch for it, having been at the sharp end myself :(
  • villier
    villier Member Posts: 4,426
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Hi

    I have been awarded DLA twice, first time was awarded the lowest payment, when my condition got worse I applied again and jumped to the top payment, when I filled the forms in I did what Steve suggested be totally honest, I also put as much information as I could based on my worst days as H suggested hope it goes well for you let us know how you get on........Marie xx
    Smile a while and while you smile
    smile another smile and soon there
    will be miles and miles of smiles
    just because you smiled I wish your
    day is full of Smiles
  • justinbarrow
    justinbarrow Member Posts: 338
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Like Steve says, Describe your worst day and if you need to be assessed you can be sure it will be your best day. They are tightening up on the DLA and more so when the new personal independence payment (P.I.P) comes into effect next year which will replace all DLA. I would apply now before the "rules" change next year.....after all you have nothing to lose but something to gain and if you are struggling its your entitlement to get/seek help.
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