I am having great difficulty in getting my DLA care allowance changed from low care to high care

jaydee73

i have applied three separate times to have my low care disability allowance increased, but they just keep saying that my condition has not changed since I originally applied for it, the fact alone that I am now 73, and applied when I was 40 ? Since first applying I have had a slight stroke that has altered my balance. Been diagnosed with Ischemic heart and Colon,and my Osteoporosis has become unbareable. So how can they refuse my request and say my condition hasn’t changed in all the years since.

Glen76

With not knowing the processes of how you applied like a mandatory reconsideration and appeal.. on the sounds of it it has been a ongoing process you can apply for a supersession https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/benefits/benefits-introduction/problems-with-benefits-and-tax-credits/challenging-a-benefit-decision/challenging-a-dwp-benefit-decision-on-or-after-28-october-2013/changing-a-benefit-decision-by-revision-and-supersession/changing-a-dwp-benefit-decision-by-supersession/ however you do run the risk as they review the full award which could result in you loosing the award. To be awarded for a higher rate DLA you have to have a night care need where you require support.

Topkitten

High rate care is generally reserved only for those needing overnight support from an external organisation (such as carers). Low rate care is for low level disability and mid rate for severe disability. There isn't really a general level of disability other than that at which high rate would be applied. The conditions you describe do not necessarily require overnight support (such as live in care).

The care component ofc, is completely separate from the mobility component which is much more related to what is wrong with you.

TK

mikehughescq

Are you looking at middle rate or highe rate care? Much easier to answer once we know that basic information.

Also worth knowing that whether your condition has changed is irrelevant. What matters is how it impacts on your need for attention or supervision on connection with bodily functions.

So, your if you had 1 level of pain and (and this is grossly simplifying) and let’s say it impacted bathing, dressing and toileting. Your pain could go up by a factor of 10  but if it still only impacts bathing, dressing and toileting then your DLA correctly remains unchanged.