Autism diagnosis

Rubywoo18

Hi , I just wanted to share that after over 2 years my son has finally been diagnosed with ASD. Ifeel relieved but also overwhelmed- it's been a long rollercoaster of a journey . Also he's decision came through for his renewal if dla but he's gone from higher rate care component to middle rate I'm thinking about doing a mandatory reconsideration coz of the new diagnosis and psychiatrist report * due to come soon) but scared they will put he's award down more or even stop it. Please can someone give me advice.

TgThanks

anisty

DLA isn't awarded on a diagnosis as I'm sure you're aware, so unless the reports back up the fact that you need to attend to him through the night, they probably won't help.

If they do give an indication of how challenging his behaviour is, and especially if they refer to him not sleeping at nights, they really will be new and strong evidence to get the higher rate care.

On what basis did they have him as higher rate before, and do you know what caused them to change to middle rate?

Has he started school, maybe? If it's because he manages a full day in education awake, they might assume he must be sleeping through the night.

I think they would be unlikely to lower or stop the claim with your good evidence now so, in my opinion, you have nothing to lose doing the MR.

But see what others think

Rubywoo18

Hi Anisty, thank you so much. I told them in the renewal form about some of his struggles at night but they seemed to overlook that.