DLA Tribunal Hearing

Hi can you give me some advice please. I have to attend a dla tribunal hearing in 2 weeks time and do not have a representative to go with me.
I have a copy of the appeal notes and ESA medical interview that I attended (I was awarded continuation in support group but comments made I feel went against my claim for DLA - which was originally made 27/12/2012 and I made a complaint about this and sent a copy of that letter to the tribunal).
Since appealing I have had brain stem test results from my consultant and have sent copies of this to the tribunal.
I am trying to claim both mobility and care elements of DLA as I have dizziness and balance problems which were caused after I had mumps in January 2012. I have seen ENT consultants and Neurologist to determine the problem and the final tests in March this year showed that there had been damage caused to the base of the brain so messages from the left ear are being delayed causing the balance and dizziness problems.
I am unable to walk without the support of my husband. Need help showering, preparing meals, cleaning etc.
my g.p could not believe that I was turned down for DLA and he wrote a letter for me to send with the original appeal but that had no effect.
What can you suggest please.
My sister is a community psychiatric nurse and is willing to attend the tribunal with me but do you think she would be a better support than my husband?

Hi Susie and welcome to Benefits and Work. This will help you find your way around the site

Welcome to Benefits and Work

It is up to you who you take with you to the tribunal. all questions will be directed at you and your companion will be expected to sit quietly unless they need to help or correct you. If your companion wishes to give a statement on your behalf you should let the Clerk of the Court know, usually they are allowed to go in with you for the whole hearing, occasionally they are asked to wait outside until needed to speak.

Have a look at our appeal FAQs

Appeals FAQs

especially this one

Preparing for a Tribunal

our DLA FAQs are here

www.benefitsandwork.co.uk/help-for-claimants/forum-faq/dla-faq

It is also worth looking at our DLA appeal guide and also reminding yourself of what you put in your DLA claim form

DLA appeals

This video tells you what to expect when you attend the Tribunal

MOJ Video of ESA Appeals Process and Tribunal

If you have any further questions please come back and ask them on this topic/thread. You will find it easily in future if you bookmark it, or make it a favourite on your web-browser, now

Thanks for the advice but I can't find the link to the video can you give me help please?

Susie wrote: Thanks for the advice but I can't find the link to the video can you give me help please?

Hi S,

It's here :

MOJ Video of ESA Appeals Process and Tribunal

I have corrected the link in MHB's post as well.

bro58

Many Thanks. I have been able to access the link and it seems very helpful.

Susie wrote: Many Thanks. I have been able to access the link and it seems very helpful.

Hi S,

Just to point out that the video is of a (mock) ESA Appeal Hearing, although a DLA hearing should be just as informal.

The only difference is that there will be a third member on the panel as well as the Judge and Doctor, there will also be a disabled lay member.

bro58