Domicillary for ADHD

Morning OP, sorry to hear this.

Assuming your child has a confirmed diagnosis and is under 16 , my guess (only a guess) is that much like Disability Allowance there seems to be an inordinate amount of initial declines and a more comprehensive look at applications on appeal and then approval. It's when an appeal is lodge it would seem a case officer is assigned and they look at all the medical reports, seek opinions etc.

I can't explain why and particularly if there is a confirmed diagnosis, whatever the illness or disability it takes an appeal but in fairness medical matters are complex and every case different in some respects.

I'm sure you and your GP submitted as much information , medical reports etc to achieve a positive outcome.

I've not had a personal experience but just thought I'd mention how applications for disability type Allowances seem to be processed, hopefully someone who's had direct experience might come on and advise you further.

I wish you both well .

No problem, I've seen the need to appeal decisions add to an already stressful time. Just in relation to additional information, if there is a confirmed diagnosis, I presume information pertaining to that was submitted on original application along with letter from GP, specialists notes etc so if so, I think you've submitted as much as is possible.

Stay positive 😉

It’s not about diagnosis, you have to prove that your child’s needs are greater than another child of the same age.

however judging from the DCA warriors group on Facebook (very helpful) there is a huge amount of declines initially. If you’ve done daily diary etc I would imagine you are covered

My experience from within that group and reading a lot of stories is that it isn’t about the diagnosis even if yes it is nice to have and may be helpful. Plenty of people without a diagnosis will get it and plenty of people with a diagnosis won’t.

It is about proving that your child has greater needs than another child. While you may use the diagnosis as part of it the form for DCA is all about the impact that the diagnosis (or lack of it) has on the child that makes his needs far higher than other children.

As a parent it’s an awful form to fill in and parents often wait far too long to apply as a consequence. You have to describe in minute detail the impact the child is having on the household and exactly what additional needs they have. This is what I mean about the diagnosis not being the focus of the application

For example it’s isn’t just enough to say ‘my child has x diagnosis’. It’s more ‘My child has sensory difficulties. I cannot leave the house without bringing his teddy (he needs it to rub), a chewy necklace (he never stops chewing and may chew on anything he comes across without it), his ear defenders (he gets very overwhelmed with just a normal noise level in public). These all need to be tracked down before we leave the house or he will refuse to leave. He cannot keep track of his own things so this adds to the time to prepare to get the family out of the house. My other children just need a coat or jumper. while we are out if he gets overwhelmed he is a flight risk. For example I cannot bring him shopping with me without a child restraint strap now as he ran out in front of a car and nearly got knocked down’

etc etc. OP I’m glad you did a daily diary, I’ve heard of a family impact statement being useful too

I apologise, no offence was intended and I can't honestly imagine how difficult the process is on top of what parents have to deal with. I felt due to the complexities involved in diagnosing ADHD (I do have a few friends that have gone through the process) that having the diagnosis will help but of course I take on board all the other daily challenges that need to be documented and of course your own experience.

Absolutely and excellent points, I've seen a lot of posts on seperate Disibility payments and the process people have to go through whilst having very few supports if any and it is awful. I am aware even getting diagnosis is incredibly difficult and just felt having it would help in the process but I do take on board your comments and excellent points. I of course understand any decision made has to factor in many different things and communication with Parents and claimants generally from the department seems, generally to be very poor.

I just hope OP is successful in the Appeal.

Thanks you

Good information

As I said it's 6 or 7 years ago when my wife applied,

She definitely received careers allowance before domiciliary.