dla

[ords]

i apply for my dla renewal in jan and i am worried sick that i wont get it i did not ask 2 get ra thanks

[sylvi]

Don't be downhearted yet. It is a slow process and i'm afraid you will have to be patient. Put down everything that ra affects and tell them everything that you have had to buy to help you.

It will be ok in the end just hang in there.

Sylvi. xxx

[Gina_K]

What is Dla in U.K.? Is it long term illness benefit? How do you qualify? I am going to look into the situation with that here in 2012.

Gina.

[julieporter]

DLA is disability living allowance and is comprised of two components -care and mobility.These two components are paid at different rates depending on disability and how it affects you.It's non means tested which means you can still claim if you work or have savings.There's a lot of info on direct.gov.uk if anyone's interested

Julie x

[Beth58]

Hi Ords, make sure you give details of how the RA affects your daily life even the little things and give as many examples as you can (use additional sheets of paper if needed). It's important you paint a clear picture (in words) of your life, give the decision maker as much information as possible with supporting evidence i.e. letters from consultant to GP (I always request a copy of this letter), ask physio or OT for a letter of support. I also advise you to include a copy of repeat prescription to confirm medications.

The benefits and work website has loads of free information about claiming and gives hints/tips on how to fill in the forms properly. I've attached a link at the bottom.

Good luck and try not to let the worry of filling in the forms spoil your Christmas.

Beth xx

benefitsandwork.co.uk/free-...

[LavendarLady]

Hi Ords, sensible advice from Beth. When I applied for DLA it took 3 months to come through but was backdated to the date I first applied. You should fill in the form as if it is your worst day and put down exactly how the RA affects you from day to day.

If you can gather extra evidence to go with the form, do so, but when I applied, DLA wrote to my GP for a report and she happily gave one and also included my consultant's reports as well.

Also have a look at the CAB website Advice Guide - a lot of helpful information on there about DLA and what to do next. Click on benefits and go from there.

As Beth says, try not to worry over Christmas, just rest and relax and have a lovely time. LavendarLady x

[Lorraine_NRAS]

Hi

NRAS also produce a dedicated booklet about completing the DLA form so if you haven't got one then please call the helpline on 0800 298 7650 or visit our website nras.org.uk to request one.

Best wishes

Lorraine