Disability Living Allowance and Mobility for Fibromyalgia Sufferers

Those of us who are unwell to the point where we cannot hold down a job or manage by ourselves can apply for help with additional benefits. The most common benefits open to those of us who fit these criteria are Disability Living Allowance and Mobility. Here we look at these benefits:

What is Disability Living Allowance (DLA)?

Disability Living Allowance (DLA) is a benefit that is given to those individuals who cannot work and find it difficult to cope by themselves. This benefit is split into three levels and each level is representative of the nature of your condition. There is a low, middle and high rate of benefit awarded and each rate is – as we have already mentioned – awarded depending on the nature and circumstances of your illness.

It is important to take into account that Disability Living Allowance is only given to those individuals who qualify and in order to qualify you must complete a medical assessment which is carried out by an independent doctor once your application has been received and processed. This examination will determine whether or not the information you have provided in your application is correct and will also assess at what level you may qualify for assistance.

You can claim Disability Living Allowance (DLA) if you are under 65, have a disability of a physical or mental nature and are unable to walk – or if your condition is severe enough that you need assistance when it comes to looking after yourself.

What is Mobility?

Mobility is the second component of the Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and is paid at two rates – either what is described as the lower or higher rate, depending on your condition. This addition sum is paid on a weekly basis and may be paid if you need assistance with travel.

For example if you cannot drive or have no transport then this additional sum can be used to pay for the cost of your travel either by taxi or public transport (should you be able to travel in this way).

Mobility can also be used for the purchase of a vehicle under the government’s Mobility scheme – this scheme allows you, or some designated by you as a carer, to have a car that will be used in order to transport you from A to B if your condition does not allow for travel by public transport or if you are too ill to walk.

It is important to note however that if you qualify for Mobility then you will not receive the additional sum of money as laid down in the Mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance (DLA) – this money is used to pay for the vehicle you use.

You may, in some circumstances, be eligible for the free road fund licence which is payable on a yearly basis. In essence the tax on your car is paid for and you receive your tax disc through the post at the time it is due – you however are responsible for making the claim for this tax at the right time.

Am I Eligible with Fibromyalgia?

As we have already discussed Fibromyalgia – along with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) – is a difficult illness to diagnose so it may take some time initially before your doctor reaches a diagnosis. After this, should you decide to claim for Disability Living Allowance (DLA) then you should expect a lengthy wait as – although Disability Living Allowance (DLA) does cover this illness there are more rigorous assessments to undergo before agreement is reached.

What Happens if I am Refused Disability Living Allowance (DLA)?

If you have been turned down for Disability Living Allowance you have one month after you have been informed of the outcome to appeal the decision. If you are awarded an appeal then you may have to appear before an independent tribunal who will hear your case and also the case against your claim and it is their decision that is final.

If your application has been turned down then you should make grounds for appeal as soon as you can if you feel that your case is justified.