List Of Six Ways You Automatically Qualify For A Blue Badge
For many drivers, a Blue Badge can be a crucial tool, allowing them to park closer to their destination and improve accessibility for themselves or those they support. If you or someone you care for might benefit from this, here’s a guide on eligibility and application.
What is a Blue Badge?
The Blue Badge scheme helps people with disabilities or mobility issues by providing them access to special parking spaces closer to essential services. This includes priority spaces in shopping centres, healthcare facilities, and other public spaces. Blue Badges typically last for three years, with renewal options available. The cost varies: in England, it’s £10, while in Scotland, it’s £20, and in Wales, it’s free.
Automatic Eligibility Criteria
Under Government guidelines, these six ways automatically qualify for a Blue Badge:
- You receive the higher rate of the mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance (DLA).
- You receive a Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and are scored at least 8 points on the ‘moving around’ activity due to limited mobility.
- You are registered blind or severely sight impaired.
- You receive a War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement.
- You’ve received a lump sum within tariff levels 1 to 8 from the Armed Forces and Reserve Forces (Compensation) Scheme, with a permanent disability impacting mobility.
- You receive the mobility component of PIP and scored 10 points on descriptor E (unable to undertake any journey due to psychological distress).
Additional Criteria for Eligibility
If you don’t automatically qualify, you may still be eligible if you meet other criteria related to physical and cognitive challenges. This can include:
- Difficulty walking, needing mobility aids, or requiring help from others.
- Experiencing pain, breathlessness, or risk to safety when walking.
- Having a life-limiting illness with mobility challenges and a supporting SR1 form.
- Having a severe disability in both arms, impacting the ability to use pay-and-display machines.
- Caring for a child under 3 who requires bulky medical equipment or emergency proximity to a vehicle.
- Struggling with journey planning, following routes, or experiencing overwhelming psychological distress near vehicles or traffic.
How to Apply
Applications are managed by your local council, which will assess your eligibility. If approved, the Blue Badge can make a big difference in daily accessibility.
Visit Nottingham City Councils website to apply and learn more about the requirements here
Lindleys Autocentres: Supporting Blue Badge Holders
At Lindleys Autocentres, we understand the importance of safe and reliable transport for Blue Badge holders in Nottingham. Our expert team is here to help with all your vehicle needs, offering comprehensive safety checks, car servicing, MOTs, tyre fitting, and more. Whether it’s regular maintenance or preparing your car for winter conditions, our autocentres are fully equipped to keep you safe and on the road. Visit any of our Nottingham locations to learn more about how we can support you and ensure your vehicle is in top condition.
