ADVICE AND TIPS
Parking sussed There’s nothing better than having the freedom to get out and about in the car, whether it’s a quick trip to the shops or a scenic drive around the country. The Blue Badge scheme might make getting from A to B that little bit easier – but how does it work? We’ve answered a few of your most frequently asked questions
WHAT IS THE BLUE BADGE SCHEME? The Blue Badge scheme gives parking concessions to drivers and passengers across the UK who have restricted mobility, whether they are wheelchair users, unable to walk short distances or registered blind. Blue Badge holders are entitled to free parking at on-street parking meters, at pay and display machines and in designated disabled parking bays. Badge holders aren’t restricted in how long they can park in these bays and are able to park on yellow lines for up to three hours, providing there is no loading or unloading in operation. AM I ELIGIBLE? You are automatically eligible to join the Blue Badge scheme if you receive the Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance or receive Personal Independence Payment for being unable to walk further than 50 metres. You are also eligible if you are registered blind, receive War Pensioner’s Mobility Supplement or have received compensation from the army and are certified to have a mobility-limiting disability. Your local authority has the final say on eligibility and so you may be asked to have a mobility assessment with a doctor or occupational therapist. If you have a permanent disability or debilitating condition, its impact on your ability to walk is key to securing eligibility to the Blue Badge scheme.
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For example, if your condition is myalgia, asthma or autism and doesn’t directly affect your ability to walk short distances, you are unlikely to qualify. If, however, this condition prevents you from walking, you may be able to secure a badge. You may also be eligible if you have a severe impairment in your arms and can prove that you drive regularly. IS MY CHILD ELIGIBLE? Disabled children are eligible members of the Blue Badge scheme from age three and upwards, unless the under-three’s condition means that they must be accompanied by bulky medical equipment that is difficult to carry, or if they need to be near a vehicle at all times to ensure easy access to hospitals. If your child is under three, doesn’t require bulky medical equipment but has a highly unstable condition such as severe epilepsy, they may be eligible. HOW DO I APPLY? If you think you might be eligible for the Blue Badge scheme and would like to apply, you should contact your local authority for an application form. You can also apply online at www.gov.uk/applyblue-badge. Your local authority will decide whether you are eligible for the badge and may advise that you need assessment to prove your disability. If you feel you have been unfairly deemed ineligible for the scheme you can ask them to reconsider the application. ■
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