There is good information about how to approach these cases in CPAG's welfare benefits and tax credits handbook 2003/04, p.142-143. Of particular importance is stressing that just because someone isn't in hospital due to suicidal tendencies, that it does not follow that their doctors do not think they are at serious risk. If you can obtain medical evidence from their consultant psychiatrist or community psychiatric nurse, so much the better.
However, from previous experience, I know that it can be difficult to persuade decision makers and tribunals to allow DLA on these grounds - if the person is depressed as well, make sure that issues around the need for frequent attention with bodily functions are also addressed, as this may provide an alternative route to entitlement.
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