Change of circumstances

B

The higher rates of DLA have different criteria from the rates he is currently receiving so you will need to consider whether he would meet that criteria before putting in a Change of Circumstances.

First, the higher rate of DLA Care will only be awarded if the claimant has substantial care needs both during the day and the night, the Middle rate is awarded for care during the day or the night but not both.

The higher rate of DLA Mobility is awarded for the following;

- be unable to walk;
- be virtually unable to walk. There is no legally defined distance but 50m is usually assumed to be applicable;
- have no legs or feet (from birth or through amputation);
- qualify for the highest rate of the DLA care component,
- be severely mentally impaired and show extremely disruptive and dangerous behaviour;
- have a severe visual impairment;
- be both blind and deaf and need the assistance of another person to walk out of doors; or
- the exertion required to walk would constitute a danger to their life or would be likely to lead to a serious deterioration in their health.

The Middle rate is awarded because the claimant is considered to have problems leaving their home or would be unable to follow a route both due to mental or cognitive problems.

Gordon