DLA appeal for child

We have a case where despite the fact that the LA are funding additional support in school in excess of £7500 per annum due to our client’s special educational needs,  DWP continue to refuse to consider any award of DLA.

We have confirmed the statutory funding, SEN report has been submitted…......we really don’t want to have to put this child through a hearing if at all possible…....any suggestions much appreciated.

Need more info’.

We are advised that client has severe receptive and expressive language disorder, literacy difficulties, 20+ hours per week support at school.

Concentrate on all the extra effort needed and given, that a child of the same age without disability does not require.  Teaching in small groups, one to one teaching, repetition and re-enforcement of learning, extra time taken to communicate and learn and what strategies are used.  I rarely take a child to a tribunal and tribunals here don’t routinely expect them to attend.  The child’s primary carer, usually the mother, is the best witness and, if truthful, usually an excellent witness.  Also, the more documentary evidence you can get the better.  Evidence of being on school action or school action plus and, if statemented, a copy of the statement.  A consultant paediatrician’s report is also useful.

How old?