Can DLA be backdated?

Can anyone tell me if DLA can be backdated? I've been awarded DLA but didn't even know if its existance until a support worker mentioned it and I applied. It turns out that I've been eligible for 5 years but never knew (the health problems I had were partly due to this along with the fact I simply had no idea of its existance). If I'm able to prove eligibility, would I be able to get it backdated?

Thanks for reading!

DLA is normally paid from the date on the claim form provided that you submit the claim promptly.

It cannot be backdated.

(Edited to add second paragraph for clarity.)

Ok thanks, I thought as much. It's just so annoying that I was eligible for it but no one told me of its existance before or I would have been many thousands of pounds better off which would have made my life soooo much easier - gutted!!!!!!

The only exception is that if someone applies for DLA, and are turned down by a DWP Decision Maker (DM) and then decide to appeal to a tribunal and succeed, then payment is backdated to the day that the DM made the decision, not to the date of the appeal hearing.

Ok thanks, I thought as much. It's just so annoying that I was eligible for it but no one told me of its existance before or I would have been many thousands of pounds better off which would have made my life soooo much easier - gutted!!!!!!

HI
does the same apply if you have asked for a review, I have needed more help since June this year which I have stated.
Lily.