AQW 2635/22-27

Ms Kellie Armstrong
Alliance Party
Strangford

Tabled Date: 01/07/2022
Answered On Date: 20/07/2022
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Communities to outline the policy which takes into consideration mental capacity when assessing the mobility of a Disability Living Allowance claimant with Down Syndrome.

Answer:

Entitlement to the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance depends on the effects that a disability or health condition has on a child’s ability to walk, and not on the particular disability or diagnosis. Every claim is determined in line with the assessment criteria, relevant legislation and information provided.

In addition to where a child is unable to walk or virtually unable to walk, the mobility component is also payable where a child is able to walk but needs extra guidance or supervision when outdoors; or is severely mentally impaired with severe behavioural problems and qualifies for the highest rate of the care component.