Having been on DLA middle rate care and Higher rate Mobility, I have been worried during the transfer which has taken almost 5 months. I had an order for my latest Motability car put on hold, an automatic, as I can no longer drive a car with a manual clutch. Have been more or less housebound waiting.
I was concerned about the assessment as the distance I can walk does vary, and sometimes is greater than the 20 metres required for 12 points. I do have several disabling progressive conditions. If I had not read and followed your guides it would never have occurred to me that as the days I can walk more than 20 m are few and far between, and I stumble and fall frequently, the 'safely, reliably, repeatedly, timely' criteria apply, as I am none of these when walking, and I would have filled the form in very differently.
I have been awarded Enhanced for both support and mobility. The award is ongoing, with recommended review in 10 years. I could not believe it. I would have been happy with less for support, as long as I can have my car.
To anyone going through the assessment process I would advise, particularly if you have a long term condition that is not going to improve, to get from your medical records any reports and test results, no matter how old. I had stuff going back over 20 years, which showed the progression of my condition.
Most important, though is to stay calm, read and follow the guides. Worth their weight in gold. As are the moderators, who give so much of their time, with patience, and courtesy when folks like me ask questions that we could find the answers to in the guides.
Moderators, one and all, I thank you for your dedication. May you be blessed with all that is good.
Alien, (aka PC)
