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 22/02/2011 18:58
 

Hi Paula,

Yes, you can represent yourself. But without legal aid, I don't know what it will cost to take the claim to the independent tribunal.

The advice I received at the the last Narcolepsy conference was to get representation for the appeal as there is a lot to do in connection with gathering enough evidence, contacting consultants etc, and putting forward a really convincing arguement to get the DLA. You will be asked questions, so you have to make sure you are armed with all the necessary evidence regarding your symptoms and how they affect you on a day to day basis, including where, when and for how long you are prone to sleep etc.

Another reason it is good to get representation is that the person acting on your behalf will be able to present a more relevant case and not one that is so personal, if you get my drift.

If it goes past the appeal stage, you will certainly need someone with legal knowledge.

See how you get on at the CAB, they will explain it all so much more better than I ever can.

All the best,

Rob

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 04/03/2011 22:43
 

Hi Paula,

I was turned down for DLA and I think i appealed twice. Supported by UKAN (then) who actually had someone come to the appeal hearing with me. It took me two years but i won the lower rate backdated and it changed my life! Don't give up, keep copies of everything, get someone to come to any hearing with you . DLA is under threat - and who knows what will happen. This is a great site for up to date benefits advice: http://www.benefitsandwork.co.uk/home

Good luck

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 07/03/2011 09:00
 

Rob is quite correct in saying CAB was a good place to start. However over the last month I have found that CAB have not been so good. They have a slow answer time, people I have dealt with have left and the whole system seems to be "groaning" a bit. I don't know if this is due to cutbacks or increased demand on their time but it is quite a concern. We do have some experience of benefits here at Narcolepsy UK so if you want some help and CAB are not giving it do feel free to contact us.

John

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 09/10/2011 23:23
 

Hi Narc's

Paula totally shocked by the reponse you received from the DLA literally calling you a liar. I would like to believe this is a one of idiot with no knowledge of the condition, but from my similar experince I think not. Please anyone else who's had this same response share it with us all.

In my claim notes it had stated, "claims do not reflect the natural course of the condition." Nothing else. What were they suggesting? Do they think I'd just made it up?

The struggle of applying for DLA for someone with Narcolepsy can be off putting. Particularly as the standard form I feel, is somewhat not scoped towards such an illness. Once one decides to apply, having being honest and given a comprehensive understanding to the decision maker, it is frustrating when a genuine illness that places such a restriction on ones ability to get through ‘normal’ day to day activities, that a claim is then rejected.
OK I agree with comments on here, and yes consideration needs to be given to the decision maker and what their understanding is of Narcolepsy. For many decision makers have never heard of Narcolepsy. Those who may have, generally associate it to ‘someone who falls asleep’. Sleep is not perceived as harmful. Many wish they could find the time to sleep/rest. It’s their lack of knowledge and understanding of the condition and its symptoms which will be the result of your claim being rejected. This does not mean that their decision is the right one.

My advice would be to not give up but challenge always a claim that is rejected. I did and after twelve months and just before tribunal I was awarded DLA.

Many more errors on my form too that they had made. Think I may share my story with you guys a little later, with the hope it may help you.

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 16/11/2011 14:15
 

Just in case this is helpful to someone else later...

If DMs just claim that things don't affect you that do, you just have to go to appeal, basically. However, legal-aid based support through CAB is available for this (for now) if you're on a low income, and there's LOADS of general advice available on going to the tribunal out there on line. Don't just accept them poo-pooing your claims.

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