Supporting letter for DLA from health professional


 

The higher qualified the person writing a supporting letter the better e.g psychiatrist. It is also very helpful if the relationship between yourself and them is relatively good. A short paragraph for each section may be needed but covering all these sections will cover the important parts of a DLA form in relation to mental health. Please look at the;
website: www.benefitsinmind.org.uk

·   Name and any diagnosis, which can also include frequency of appointments

·   Any medication taken, any side effects can also be mentioned

·   Self care skills - highlight any difficulties encountered and the type of support required. Also the consequences of not getting adequate support 

·   Safety – mention any problems with self harm, suicidal thoughts etc, and there regularity. The vulnerability of the individual and support required 

·   Night time – any difficulties that occur specifically at night,  ( this is very important for people who feel they may be entitled to higher rate DLA care) 

·   Help seeking – mention where the person can get support when feeling vulnerable, including home treatment teams, cpn  etc, family, friends. Can also include any specific plans in an emergency 

·   Independent living – Stress that without the support of others the individual may have significant difficulties coping by themselves and be unable to live independently

*Any positive statement regarding self care from a suitably qualified medical professional can mean the claim is turned down*