DLA - Gathering more information.

Hi everyone -
I recently received a letter from DWP enclosing a claim form as a result of receiving information from my consultant.

The letter goes on to say "that there may have been a change in your circumstances and I need to gather more information about your care and mobility needs before I can decide whether you are receiving the right amount of benefit."

I have a long term medical condition that has not improved and may have worsened slightly. I have been receiving DLA for many years at the higher rate for both mobility and care, and was initially granted it for life, a review some years ago changed it to indefinately.

Has anyone else received these letters - any information would be appreciated - the claim forms have changed a fair bit so was looking for input into this as well.
Shane

Hi Shane

The link below may be of help to you. I'm slightly surprised that this was triggered by your consultant, in the way you suggest above?

www.disabilityalliance.org/f8.htm

Hi
I was surprised as well, I initially was contacted several months prior to all this by the DWP requesting an update from me and the usual list of meds, doctors etc - I heard nothing subsequently, out of the blue I received the claim pack and the letter.
I find it odd as I have seen my consultant twice since the initial request for information by the DWP, both times due to my condition worsening.
I have written to the DWP requesting they provide me a copy of the report from my consultant highlighting area's that they feel I have improved along with a copy of my last claim pack as a benchmark against any change in my condition - either way.
I have sent a copy of that letter to my consultant and will be seeing her on the 16th December.
It really concerns me - it would be a huge impact on my life to loose the DLA.
Regards
Shane

Hi michael
I'm not sure you got my reply - let me know, I would be interested in your thoughts.
Shane

shane63 wrote:

Hi michael
I'm not sure you got my reply - let me know, I would be interested in your thoughts.
Shane

Hi Shane

Sorry I missed it (v busy here today!). Thanks for providing that. It would seem you are taking the right action. At the moment your DLA has not been affected?

The DWP are entilted to review even indefinate awards, (life-time awards are no longer given) at any time. The info on Right Payment may be applicable in your case.

If it is changed or you lose your DLA, your option would be to appeal. That's a bridge you may need to cross, later.

If your condition has worsened hopefully you can get confirmation of this. I would point out though that DLA is not awarded on the basis of a medical condition alone, but the needs that arise, the help needed from someone else.

You may have to emphasise to DLA the help you need, whether you get that help or not.

Please have a read of the B&W guides concerning DLA.

Kind regards

Michael

Hi Michael
Thanks for your time, I appreciate the insight.
Yes, I am still receiving DLA at the same rate and also have a registered carer through the DWP so will complete the claim pack once I get a reply from them.
I will use the guidelines, I think that the change in the claim form, from the one I filled in years ago (particularly the timing to the minute for any help I receive) has thrown me a lot.
Again, thank you for your time.
Kind regards
Shane