Q2. I don’t keep very well and my neighbour has told me that I should claim something called Disability Living Allowance. What is this and how do I claim it?

A. Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is for people aged under 65 who experience difficulty in day to day life with either getting around or personal care. The benefit comes in 2 components (Mobility & Care). These 2 components break down further into 3 rates (Low, Middle & High) you may be entitled to 1 or more of these components in any combination depending on how your condition effects you.

If you are aged under 65 and require help with any of the following you may be entitled to DLA.

• Getting dressed / undressed
• Getting in / out of bed
• Getting to / from the toilet
• Assistance with medication or medical treatment
• Continual supervision as a result of your illness or disability

When walking a short distance outdoors -

• Do you get short of breath?
• Do you experience severe discomfort?

Due to health problems -

• Do you need someone with you when you go outdoors?
• Does someone make your meals for you?
• Do you get meals delivered?

The above is a rough guide, in all cases if you think you may have an entitlement speak to an advisor.

You can get the forms for DLA by calling your local Department of Work & Pensions (DWP). They will send you out a DLA claim pack with 2 dates in the top right hand corner of the form. The first date will be the date you asked for the form and the second date will be exactly 6 weeks later. You must return the form to the DWP before the second date. If your claim is successful then all money will be backdated to the day you asked for the form regardless of how long it takes to process the claim.