I have just used the new DLA form for a Special Rules case for the first time and referred to the little blue info sheet for which pages to fill in. I am fairly sure that the last version of this said something to the effect that you should complete S1 and certain pages of S 2 including the first three if you have mobility problems.

The new info sheet just says "fill in all the pages that apply to you" which seems to be very confusing and may well lead to a good deal of unneccessary work and stress. I spoke to the Bristol DBC who said it wasn't necessary to complete any more than you would have done on the old form and that you do not need to sign the 'consent' if a DS1500 is provided. this is particularly relevant if your client isn't aware of the diagnosis and someone else is signing for them as the GP probably wouldn't be able to release info on the say so of a third party.

I can't see why there has been the change of wording. Even if someone filled in all the 'care ' pages saying they had no care needs at all they would still be eligible under the special rules. The Bristol DBC seemed unaware of the change when I spoke to them, as did the professional helpline so I'm not sure how 'official' the advice i have been given is. has anyone had any problems with this?

pete

Another very subtle change with the new form, along with the lack of the ability to request an EMP, and the 'optional' bit about the statement implying that the rest of the form is NOT optional, as well as of course the effective shortening of the deadline by removal of sections 1 and 2 in the first place.

This has not been a welcome move. No 'focus group fanfare' heralded its entry in December did it?