Ex is witholding DLA award letter and child is missing out on support

3Rainbows

Hi!

My ex has been witholding my childs DLA award letter for some reason but it’s seriously impacting the support she receives.

We have 50/50 parental responsibility. I have rung the DWP 6-7 times just asking for a copy of the award letter. They will not share it with me as i am not the appointee. Im told to get a court order. My ex is controlling and coercive and because of this my daughter is missing out.

Through the freedom of information website I have slso contacted the DWP asking for a copy of it. Its been three months and Ive heard nothing.

My ex slso takes my daughters dla and banks it, rather than paying towards SLT snd OT, he buys her Barbies from charity shops.

Recently I was told by someone at the DWP to get a letter from a social worker saying that my ex is misusing her money and not meeting her needs.

The social worker has been told she cant write that letter and that they’ve never been asked to do so before.

Im literally going around in circles fighting for my daughter. I cant afford to go to court and its my daughter thats missing out.

I really thought when I left this sbusive relationship things would get better for us but it has escalated out of control.

Her Dla has now been suspended, she is 10 and can not wipe herself. I just want to get her extra OT and respite/PA via Shortbreaks but they need the Dla letter

What can i do? Any advice would be much appreciated.

Thank you 💔

MW123

@3Rainbows

I am so sorry to hear about your situation and completely understand your concerns about the cost of going to court. However, because this issue directly impacts your daughter’s care and well-being, it is highly likely that you or your daughter will qualify for legal aid.

I strongly recommend finding a solicitor who specialises in family law. They can confirm your eligibility for legal aid and assist you in applying for a Specific Issue Order under Section 8 of the Children Act 1989. This type of order helps resolve disputes between parents or guardians when an agreement cannot be reached, in this case concerning the DLA letter.

This letter is vital for securing additional support for your daughter, such as extra occupational therapy, respite care, or a personal assistant through Short Breaks. Ensuring that you have this support in place can make a significant difference in her care and well-being.

The court will prioritise your daughter’s best interests, making decisions that ensure she receives the necessary support. A family law solicitor will guide you through every step of this process to secure both the Specific Issue Order and legal aid.

I wish you and your daughter all the best, and I am sending you one of my special grandma hugs. xx

Kimi87

All I can suggest is reporting your concerns around appointee abuse to the DWP directly, yourself.

https://www.scope.org.uk/advice-and-support/removing-an-appointee