I have a client who has OCD, I am having trouble finding information on the care component as she does all of the cleaning herself and although she gets very anxious she says no amount of attention or supervision can stop her doing this cleaning or make her feel better, she does not self harm. Can anyone point me in the direction of caselaw and/or guidance for OCD & DLA. Thanks.

CDLA/2717/2002 deals with OCD.

There's been plenty of other discussions on here too about it.

You may want to go back and have a look at some of them?

The usual route would be to argue that she needs help in connection with her bodily functions in the form of encouragement to stop an activity (obsessive cleaning) so that she can move on to something else (thus having more of a normal life).

Problem you have is that her instructions are that no amount of attention will stop her behaving in this way. This is a shame as that scuppers her best case- can you explore this in more detail with the client (for example- has she ever actually had a friend round who tried to encourage her to do other things. maybe that would be effective and she just feels it would not be as it has not been tried and/or her condition means she does not see that it would actually be of benefit).

Thanks for the replies I have read the commissioners decision and discussion but found it difficult to fit this with my client. She has got a sister who supports her and she confirms that she cannot stop her cleaning or distract her. However I will explore this in more detail, perhaps if her sister can help her avoid the situations that set her off. This client has lived like this for about 20 years so its the age old problem of her trying to be positive while we try to establish the help she needs and probably receives.

I had a case (CDLA/0758/2005) that dealt with attention and OCD. Again, it rested on the principle that verbal attention could help someone to refrain from obsessive behaviour.

if you want a copy let me know

Paul

Hello Paul

I am about to take an OCD case to the Commissioner and would really like a copy of your decision, please. Could you fax it fao Christopher Connolly to 01629 772333? Or let me know if there is an alternative way you would like to send it to me.

Thanks very much.

hello Christopher

is the fax number correct- tried a couple of time with no joy

Paul

Thanks Paul I have emailed you my details.

Hi there Paul

I would be really grateful if you could fax me a copy/e-mail me one as well.

My fax number is 0117 378 9811 and my e-mail is graham at ebas dot org dot uk.

Thanks

graham

Thanks to Paul, CDLA/758/2005, which deals with OCD and attention needs, is now available on rightsnet.