Hi Just Jane
I recently applied for AA for my Dad and I received the decision notice two weeks later (which seems remarkably fast) telling me he had been awarded AA at the higher rate.
I used the online PDF form, which I was able to fill out in small increments and save each time. It took me several weeks to complete the form to my own satisfaction. I could probably have done it much quicker, but I think it is less emotionally stressful and mentally demanding to do it gradually. I found it especially helpful to go back to the form and reread my answers and evidence, from a more objective point of view, making changes where necessary.
The DWP decision maker will judge your application according to some pretty narrow criteria, so it helps to include as much detail as possible regarding the ‘bodily functions’ care or ‘supervision’ or ‘watching over’ that your Dad requires. Do lots of internet research. I even read the DWP Decision Maker’s guide:
https://assets.publishing.service.g...loads/attachment_data/file/658374/dmgch61.pdf
I found this very helpful in deciding what aspects of my Dad’s care and supervision I needed to concentrate on and detail in the form. It’s no good detailing, for example, how much gardening or food shopping you do for the PWD, because these are irrelevant for the purposes of AA. On the other hand, things that may seem very trivial, such as guiding the PWD to the loo or adjusting their clothing throughout the day, are matters of ‘bodily functions’ care and are therefore very relevant to AA.
Good luck.