Child Disability Payment decision making guide
Exceptions to entitlement to the lower rate mobility component
An individual is not entitled to the mobility component of CDP unless, for most of that period, their physical or mental condition means they are able, from time to time, to benefit from assistance for movement (CDP regs, reg. 14). This means individuals unable to do this are not entitled to the mobility component.
The word “benefit” should be given a wide interpretation. It can include, for example, mental stimulation from being outside.
It would be rare to refuse an application solely for this reason. Individuals who are in a coma, or whose condition means that it is unsafe to be moved outdoors would likely not benefit from being outdoors. If the individual has a very severe mental health condition that means they would require a high degree of supervision and intervention to prevent injury to themselves or others would also likely not benefit from being outdoors.
If in doubt, a case manager should consider whether a case discussion would be helpful in making a determination.
Ken is 11 years old and has heart failure. This means he requires constant ventilation. He uses a machine which pumps re-oxygenated blood around his body. He is currently on the waiting list for a heart transplant.
This puts Ken at an extremely high risk of life threatening infection. It is therefore vital that he remains in as sterile an environment as possible until he receives his transplant.
Ken is not entitled to any rate of the mobility component of CDP. This is because Ken is unable to benefit from assistance for movement as he needs to remain in the sterile environment.
Cody is 14 years old and was involved in a traumatic road accident. She experiences flashbacks, anxiety and palpitations when leaving the house, and is now schooled at home. Cody occasionally sits in the garden to talk to her friends, but she very rarely leaves the house. When she does leave the house, she is usually accompanied by her parents.
Whilst Cody may rarely leave the house as a result of her condition, being outdoors can have a positive, beneficial effect, even though it may also can Cody some distress. The case manager decides the Cody is entitled to the lower rate of the mobility component.